William H. Gardner

William Henry Gardner was born October 23, 1950, in Wilmington, Delaware to the late Harry L. Gardner, and Alice M. Gardner. He passed away on May 21, 2026, in Wilmington, Delaware.

William received his early education from Mary C.J William Elementary School, Bayard in Junior High, and graduated from Wilmington High School on June 15, 1968, while in school he loved running track and ran the 100 and 200 yard events.

William, better known as “Billy,” enlisted in the US Navy in the year of 1968, and served until 1971 on the aircraft carrier USS America. Bill was always proud of his military service. He was a member of the DAV of the Philadelphia Camp Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, Philadelphia PA, and a lifetime member of the VFW. Bill was also a member of the Boy Scouts of America and Cub Pack of Wilmington, Delaware. Upon his honorable discharge from the Military, Bill briefly worked at an Optical business before working at Atlantic Aviation and retiring after 27 years. While at Atlantic Aviation, Bill received his associate’s degree in accounting.

William was a faithful member of Silverbrook United Methodist Church (which he had many duties) and Mt. Salem United Methodist Church.

Bill had an outgoing personality that drew people to him. Those who knew him will remember his kind heart, warm smile, and genuine presence. He enjoyed researching family history, watching the History Channel, and gardening, especially planting vegetables such as tomatoes and, on one occasion, a pumpkin. He loved watching sports because there were many conversations between his brother Timothy and nephew Devon.

William was preceded by in death by his parents Harry L. Garder, and Alice M. Gardner, and Phyllis Cooper (Barry), Lavonne Cooper (Barry), Kenneth Gardner (Ann), Phillip Gardner (Dixie), Alice McMillian (Ronald), and Georgia A. Gardner.

William leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Valerie J. Gardner, his brothers, Harry S. Gardner, Jr., Timothy T. Gardner, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.