William E. Gardner

It is with much sadness that the family of William E. Gardner announces his passing on December 1, 2022. Bill died peacefully at home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He was born on April 22, 1941 in High Point, North Carolina to Hazel Owens and Willie Gardner. Bill was a graduate of North Carolina State University with a mechanical engineering degree in 1963. He enlisted in the Navy and graduated from Officers Candidate School in 1964. Bill was the class leader during SEAL Training with UDTR Class 38 at Little Creek Amphibious Base, which he completed in December 1966. While on active duty, Bill served in Underwater Demolition Team 22, 21, and SEAL Team 2. During his time in SEAL Team 2 he made a combat tour to Vietnam as platoon commander earning a Bronze Star with Combat “V”. After his service in the Navy he worked with his wife Ann at Ann Gardner’s Travel Service for many years. Ann and Bill were married on February 14, 1969 and went on to enjoy 50 years of marriage until Ann’s death in 2019. Bill and Ann have two sons William Jonathan Gardner and Owen Justin Gardner. Bill was a wonderful husband and father that tirelessly took care of his family. He was a hero to many but always remained a humble man. He will be dearly missed by family and friends. Bill is survived by two sisters Robyn Johnson and Ren Cole. The family would like to thank his niece Liz Marl RN and Doctor Richard Hatch for their diligent care during his last days. A graveside memorial will be held on Saturday December 10, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Eastern Shore Chapel Cemetery, 2020 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454.