Charles Ray Gardner, Sr.

Charles Ray Gardner, Sr., 89, of Morganton, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at his residence.

He was born in McDowell County on November 22, 1936 to the late Parley Gardner and Margie Jimison Gardner. A longtime member of Hankins Baptist Church, Charles was a family man who loved the Lord wholeheartedly. Fishing was his passion and something he truly enjoyed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Jeffrey Wayne Gardner and Charles Gardner, Jr., and one brother, Edward Gardner.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Faye Abercrombie Gardner; his daughter, Tammy Gardner Langston; three grandchildren, Amber Gardner, Tierney Parks (Patrick), and Kyle Gardner; three great-grandchildren, Aaron Parks, Sariyah Parks, and Kohen Parks; and three siblings, Cline Gardner, Mildred Anderson, and Patricia Wood (Mackey).

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at McDowell Memorial Park with Pastor Danny White officiating.