Mr. Edward Frederick “Fred” Gardner Jr., 68, was welcomed home to worship in heaven with his Lord and Savior and beloved wife, Pat, on Sunday morning, Feb. 23, 2025. His master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” – Matthew 25:21
A lifelong resident of Onley, Fred was born on Sept. 17, 1956, to the late Edward Frederick Gardner and Elizabeth “Betty” Gardner, who raised him in a home rooted in strong Christian values — a foundation that shaped his unwavering faith throughout his life. He graduated from Onancock High School, class of 1974, and later earned an associate degree from Eastern Shore Community College.
For over 20 years, Fred dedicated his career to A&N Electric Cooperative before retiring to care for Pat, remaining devoted to her until her passing on April 6, 2024. His deep conviction ultimately led him to become an ordained minister, and he found great fulfillment in testifying to God’s grace and mercy. Fred was a cherished member of Lighthouse Assembly of God, where his warm smile, generous spirit, and passion for the Word of God will always be remembered by his church family. While family and faith were the heart of his life, Fred also enjoyed gardening, reading, and bike riding. He loved a good conversation, bodysurfing at Assateague, and could occasionally be found tinkering and woodburning in his garage.
He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Edward Frederick “Fred” Gardner III and his wife, Jen, of Gaithersburg, Md., and Makenzie Elliott Gardner, of Onley; his sister, Kathleen “Kathy” Evans, of Parksley; and his nephews, Michael Evans and his wife, Kristen, and Nathan Evans. He is also survived by his pup and faithful companion, “Happy.”
A service to celebrate Fred’s life and homegoing will be conducted from the chapel of the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home on Friday, Feb. 28, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Kevin Wilson officiating. Private interment will be held at the Edgehill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Fred’s memory may be made to Lighthouse Assembly of God, 6329 Maddox Blvd., Chincoteague, VA 23336.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at
www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements are by the Williams Funeral Homes, Onancock and Parksley.
