Robert Gardner – We Bid Farewell to a Tampa Heights Resident

A life-long resident of Tampa Heights, Robert Gardner was born in the home at 209 West Palm Avenue.  A member of the Tampa Heights Civic Association, Mr. Gardner dedicated much time to making this community a better place to live.

A graduate from Middleton High School, Robert Gardner continued his education at West Virginia State College, where he earned a B. S. Degree and a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Florida A & M University. Mr. Gardner also earned his Certification in Administration and Supervision from the University of South Florida. 

A former Hillsborough County classroom teacher, Mr. Gardner taught at several area schools. He served as acting principal at Wilbanks Juvenile Home in Seffner, and as a Guidance Counselor at Young Jr. High School.

Mr. Gardner became the second African American to serve as Coordinator of Personnel Services when he was appointed in August 1968. He retired from the Hillsborough County School System on December 31, 1992 after 42 years of dedicated service.

The recipient of numerous awards, commendations, honors, and other forms of recognition, Mr. Gardner held membership in several fraternal, professional, and social organizations. 

A member of St. Paul A. M. E. Church, Mr. Gardner served as Commissioner of Historic Preservation, former president of Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Tampa Chapter Frontiers International, the NAACP, and a charter member of Young Adults for Progressive Action, among other organizations.

In addition to his wife, Mrs. Lillian Gardner, he is survived by four children.

Services:

Friday, August 27, 2004 at 7:00pm
Wilson Funeral Home 
3000 North 29th Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
(813) 248-6125

Church & Funeral Services:

Saturday, August 28, 2004 at 11:00am 
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church
506 East Harrison Street
Tampa, Florida 33602
(813) 223-9753

 

August 22, 2004

Dear Lillian & Family,

It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to Robert.  Having known him 
for only a few years, he touched our hearts immensely… and we’re better 
people for having known him.

With deepest sympathy 

Mary & Roy Hernandez

August 23, 2004

Lillian, 

It is always a terrible thing to loose a husband, father, grandfather, lover and a friend. Only knowing Robert for a few years his wisdom and zest for life and those he cared about showed immensely.  I know you'll miss him, as we all will but you must remember God loves him best and he's in a much better place. Believe me I know you'll ALWAYS be in his heart forever. 

With Deepest sorrow, 
Councilman Kevin White

 

August 23, 2004

Dear Lillian and Family, 

Everyone that has attended our civic association meetings knows how active Robert was in this neighborhood. He will be missed by all! 

Our sympathy to you, 
Erika and Tim Price

 

 

August 24, 2004

Over the past several years I have had the privilege to speak with Robert many times regarding his memories of the splendor Tampa Heights past, and his vision for its future. He has been a tremendous asset to all our efforts to revive Tampa Heights. He was always so generous with his time and thoughtful insights re our community. He will be missed by all. 

With our regards and deepest sympathy, 
Hal, Cindy & Taylor Hart

 

 

August 24, 2004 

We were fortunate to have known Mr. Gardner over the years that we have lived here. He was a kind and generous man who respected all people. He also cared deeply for his neighborhood and served to make it a better place. 

With Sympathy, 
The Schulers:  Monika, Ralph, Parker and Zoe

 

 

August 25, 2004

Dear Lillian and Family, 

Mr. Gardner was a strong supporter of the historic preservation of Tampa Heights. He graciously volunteered his time, energy, service and wealth of knowledge to the Historic Preservation Commission. It has been an honor to have him on the Board and to serve him as staff. We will all miss him so very much. 

With deepest sympathy, 
Annie Hart 
HPC Administrator

 

 

August 29, 2004

Dear Lillian and family, 

It was an honor to have known such an outstanding man.  Mr.Gardner will greatly be missed we mourn with you.. 

Sincerely, Danny Skelton and family

 

 

If you would like to write a note of condolences, 
or just feel good story about Mr. Gardner, please do so below.  
Then we will post them on this webpage within 24 hours.

 

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