James Allen Gardner

He was born on November 16, 1941, in Washington, DC to the late James Andrew and Mary Virginia (Harrell) Gardner.

James devoted 31 years of faithful service as an electrical technician, retiring after a career marked by steady skill and dependable commitment. He served with the Directorate for Logistics, Equipment Power Generation Division at Fort Belvoir, where his work reflected the same quiet diligence and reliability that shaped the rest of his life.

For 63 years, James shared a devoted marriage with his wife, Betty B. Gardner. He was the proud father of two sons, Jeffrey Gardner (wife Cindy) and Mark Gardner. His love for family continued through his grandchildren—Ashley Gardner Lettner (husband Andrew), Katie Gardner Courtney (husband Josh), Isabelle Hudson-Gardner, and Addison Hudson-Gardner—and his great-grandchildren, Harper Courtney, Emma Lettner, Owen Courtney, Hannah Lettner, Erin Courtney. James is also survived by his brother, Harrell Gardner (wife Dorothy) and numerous extended family.

James often said he had a wonderful life and much to be thankful for, and he lived in a way that made those words ring true. He loved his wife deeply and took great pride in his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Respected by all who knew him, he carried himself with a calm steadiness—slow to speak, generous in spirit, and consistently attentive to the needs of family, neighbors, friends, and church. He never sought recognition for what he gave, offering help simply because it was right.

His truest joy came from placing Jesus first, others second, and himself last. That guiding conviction shaped a life of humble service, gratitude, and peace—an example that will remain with those who loved him.

An avid reader, James also found enduring joy in fishing, hunting, and time in nature with his father, his sons, and friends. He believed that “time spend with them was time well spent,” and his appreciation for life’s gifts and mysteries was evident in the quiet warmth of his presence and the steady grace with which he met each day.

A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 12 noon at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg, VA.