Michael D. Gardner, Sr.

Born on August 1, 1961, in Florence, South Carolina, he was the second-born son of George Wilson Gardner Jr. and Sammie Rhett Munn. A lifelong resident of Florence, he was a dedicated and hardworking employee of Koppers, where he proudly devoted 22 years of service. On July 28, 1991, he married the love of his life, Cindy, and together they built a life and home together. From their union came two children, Brandi and Mikey, whom he was so proud of.

He found joy in the simple pleasures that brought people together. An avid sports fan, he was fiercely loyal to his South Carolina Gamecocks, Dallas Cowboys, and Philadelphia Phillies. He loved sports facts and trivia and could turn any gathering into a trivia game, always eager to challenge anyone willing to play. He loved music, especially classic rock, and proudly called himself an unofficial member of the KISS Army. A die-hard fan of “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair, he will forever be remembered for his spot-on imitation—one so good it nearly put the legend himself to shame. He was a true NASCAR fan, always cheering for Rusty Wallace. Easygoing and friendly, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and light up a room with his incredible dance moves. He carried his faults, but his love was unwavering for the people closest to him. Most of all, he will be deeply missed for standing at the grill, cooking his famous steaks, surrounded by the family he loved so much.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Cindy; his two children, Brandi (Jonathan) and Michael Gardner; his sister, Vickie (Danny) Coleman; and his four beloved grandchildren, Lawson, Haigan, Ledger, and Wrenley. He is also survived by his nephews, Devin (Katelyn) Coleman and Daniel (Karen) Coleman, mother-in-law Dottie Rogers, as well as his lifelong friend, Harold “Joe” Poston. Also surviving are his grandpups Goose and Zeke.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sammie Rhett Munn and George Wilson Gardner Jr.; his brother, George Wilson Gardner III; his granddaughters, Emersyn Lynn and Everleigh Lynn; and his father-in-law, William “Buddy” Rogers.

A visitation will be held at 5:00 Tuesday, with a memorial service following at 6:00 PM. Anyone who attends are encouraged to where their University of South Caroliina colors in Mike's honor.