Henry L. Gardner Jr., affectionately known as “Hank,” was born on May 25, 1951, in Long Branch, NJ to Henry and Dorothy Gardner. Hank attended Morganville elementary schools and graduated from Freehold Regional High School in 1969. During high school, Hank worked at Dupont for 2 years. After high school, he enlisted in the Army and was an MP (military police). After leaving the military, Hank started working at Nestle in Freehold, NJ where he later retired after 47 years.
Hank married the love of his life, Adria Lynn McGhee in 1972 and remained happily married for 49 years. He resided in Neptune, NJ with his wife and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was a faithful member of Wicker Memorial Baptist Church in Morganville, NJ. He served on the Trustee Board and as a pastor’s aide. He sang in the VIP choir and one of his favorite songs was “Never Could Have Made It.” His favorite pastimes were going to the racetrack and styling the last fashions including hats.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Patricia Elizabeth “Shortie” Gardner.
Hank leaves behind his wife of 49 years Adria Gardner; three brothers Rusty Gardner (Dolores Smith), Orlando Gardner, and Carlos Garner; sister-in-law and best friend Cheryl Haygood; brother-in-law Reginald McGhee; life-long friend Alton Bradley; special friends Reggie Warren and Hager Saunders; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, God children and many friends.
It is with great sorrow we come to mourn the death of another “Morganville family member” . He will always be remembered as “Family” May GOD rest his soul.
Sincerely , The English Family