Jay Gardner

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Jay William Gardner, age 69, tragically passed away in an accident on Thursday, February 8, 2024. He was born on September 23, 1954, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to John and Evelyn Gardner. 

Jay's upbringing was marked by the nomadic lifestyle of a navy brat, moving from place to place until his family settled in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where he spent his formative years and graduated from high school. 

With a strong work ethic and a passion for technology. He ventured into entrepreneurship, founding and operating his own fiber optic communication company, Jay Gardner Lineman, for 30 years. In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Jay worked as a truck driver and, most recently, at Walmart until his untimely passing. 

Jay had a zest for life and a love for adventure, evident in his passion for travel across the United States. He found joy in riding motorcycles and had a special affinity for all things Harley-Davidson. An enthusiast of old cars and rock and roll music, Jay was a collector at heart and cherished working with his farm animals. 

On November 29, 2012, Jay was united in marriage to Belinda Gardner in Hollister, Missouri, who survives him. He is also survived by his children Kimberly Cagle and husband Donald of Dardanelle, Arkansas; Michael Jones and wife Amy of Anderson, Missouri; Ehi Barnes and girlfriend Shannon of Joplin, Missouri; Ean Jones and significant other Harmony Evans of Neosho, Missouri; Eric Gardner and wife Julia of New Jersey; and Ashley Gardner of Georgia. 

Jay leaves behind eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, siblings Gary Gardner and Jan Gardner, as well as numerous extended family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Gardner, and his brother Phillip Gardner.

A memorial visitation to celebrate Jay's life will be held from 3:00 - 5:00 PM on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, Missouri.

Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Bikers Creed – “A biker’s word is his or her bond. Never ride faster than you angel can fly. Never leave a brother or sister that is broken down. Give respect…get respect. Defend our lifestyle. Never mistake our kindness for weakness.”

Online condolences may be posted at www.clarkfuneralhomes.com

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.