George Frederick Gardner, Jr., born in Glen Burnie, Maryland, on December 22, 1931, to his late parents, Fred and Vida Gardner, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. He lived a life deeply rooted in faith, service, music, and an abiding love for his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan Gardner (91 years young), with whom he shared a loving and enduring marriage of nearly 74 years, along with their children: Brenda Jackson, Tom Gardner, G. Glenn Gardner, and the late David Gardner.

From a very early age, George had a passion for music. By age eight, the guitar had become his primary instrument, though he also played piano beautifully by ear. Music remained a lifelong joy for him, expressed through singing in choirs, Sunday school programs, a country radio band, church gatherings, and family moments where music and faith naturally intertwined.

After graduating from Glen Burnie High School, George pursued baseball and trained as a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers organization. Shortly afterward, on August 2, 1952, he married Joan Kellenberger, also of Glen Burnie, Maryland. Together they built a life grounded in faith, love, and family.

Only months into their marriage, George was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War, where he continued to play baseball while serving his country. His military service reflected the same courage, humility, commitment, and sense of duty that characterized the rest of his life.

George’s greatest passion, however, was his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved the Lord wholeheartedly and dedicated much of his life to sharing the Gospel with others. He served as a missionary for 34 years, including 14 years in Colombia, South America, faithfully ministering, encouraging, and bringing hope to countless lives.

As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, George was a steady source of wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love. He joyfully shared his love of nature, music, Scripture, and Jesus with every generation. His legacy continues through his 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter, each carrying forward the faith and values he lived so authentically.

George will be remembered for his servant’s heart, steadfast faith, devotion to family, and his willingness to share hope and encouragement with everyone he encountered. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of faith and love will continue to live on in all the lives he touched.

As George often expressed in his faith: “We are one with Christ, and therefore one with each other — whether in this world or the next.” This truth brings comfort in knowing that, through Christ, love and connection transcend even death.

Visitation will be held 9:00 ~ 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 13, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 E. Seminole in Springfield.  Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m., at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood Road, in Springfield.

Care has been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home East.