Johnny Lee Gardner, 73, of Raymore, Missouri, passed away suddenly on July 29, 2021. Born on November 30, 1947, in Russellville, Arkansas, to Esco and Macie (Ross) Gardner, he moved to Kansas City, Missouri, at age 4, due to his father’s determination to give his family a better life than could be attained as sharecroppers.
Johnny was a 1965 graduate of Paseo High School in Kansas City, Missouri. During the Vietnam War, he proudly served in the US Navy, alongside his brother Robert and uncle Tony, on the aircraft carrier, the USS America. Johnny traveled the world during his military service before receiving an honorable discharge with the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Upon returning to civilian life, Johnny earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Missouri at Kansas City in 1976.
Johnny had a tenacious work ethic. While pursuing his college degree, he owned and operated a successful custodial business. After graduating, Johnny maintained this business while building an impressive portfolio in insurance and financial planning. Johnny had a distinguished career in the insurance and financial planning industry and was recognized nationally for his business acumen. He prided himself on being a stoic and diligent worker who could always be counted on to offer guidance and assistance to others.
Johnny was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and took joy in serving others in a variety of leadership roles. Johnny acted as a modern, albeit lawful, Robin Hood, as he frequently collected household items and clothing from affluent congregations to give them to families in need throughout the Kansas City area. He treasured his Temple service and missionary work and shared his testimony frequently. Even in death, Johnny continued his service to others by being an organ donor.
Johnny enjoyed many hobbies and truly never met a stranger. He loved fishing with his children and grandchildren, spending time with friends, tinkering with and customizing cars, watching old Western movies, strumming his bass guitar, playing the piano, and competing in tennis tournaments.
Johnny is survived by the family he loved, including his wife of 39 years, Donna; son Johnny of Kansas City, Missouri, daughter Erin (David) Jensen of Raymore, Missouri, daughter Kyle (Jeremy) Tate of Thornton, Colorado, and son Sean of Raymore, Missouri; grandchildren Braxton, Marilyn, Jonah, Jordan, Kami, and Jagger; brothers Richard (Renee) and Alan (Joy); uncle and honorary brother Tony Ross; and many nieces and nephews. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Robert, and his granddaughter, Lunden Jensen.
The family is eternally grateful for all who selflessly attended to Johnny last Thursday, including his dear friend, Dale Lombard, with whom Johnny was enjoying lunch, the Good Samaritan who performed CPR at the scene, the emergency personnel who responded to the call, and the medical team who worked tirelessly when Johnny arrived at the hospital.
Services will be held Saturday, August 7, 2021, at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, Missouri. The family will receive friends at 12:00 p.m. with funeral services at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services and interment with military honors will follow immediately at Forest Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America or Chive Charities.
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