Tribute for Jeffrey Lamar Gardner:
The Trion community is mourning the loss of Jeffrey Lamar “Jeff” Gardner, who passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the age of 51 at Atrium Health Floyd. A beloved husband, father, son, and friend, Jeff leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, unwavering support of local athletics, and deep-rooted faith.
Born on June 28, 1973, in Rome, Georgia, Jeff was the son of Tommy Lamar Gardner and the late Margaret Ann Nichols Gardner. He was a member of the Summerville Pentecostal Worship Center and was self-employed in roof sales. Those who knew Jeff remember him as a family man through and through—his greatest passion was cheering on his children in every activity they pursued. He was a fixture in the stands, proudly supporting Trion athletics, always with a kind word and a warm heart.
Jeff’s life was marked by both love and loss. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Cassidy Gardner, sister Patty Nichols, grandparents Foy and Paul Gardner and Walter Nichols, and his brother by choice, Casey Wallin. He is survived by his devoted wife, Tabatha Gardner; his children, Staven Gardner, Gunnar Gardner, Zach (Erica) Gardner, and Emarey Gardner; his father and stepmother, Tommy and Judy Gardner; his sister, Ginger (Greg) Hutchins; his grandmother, Betty Nichols; and his sister by choice, Starr McGill. Jeff’s extended family, friends, and community will forever cherish his spirit and dedication.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at Mason Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Rev. Andy Hutchins, with interment to follow at West Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers include Stacy Bishop, Zach Brown, Brian Colbert, Brian Chandler, Derrick Nichols, Mark Nichols, Jeremy Nichols, and Chris Ledbetter. Visitation will begin at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday at the funeral home, prior to the service. Jeff’s memory will live on in the lives he touched. He was a cornerstone of his community, a loyal friend, and a loving family man.