Lee Arthur Gardner

Lee A. Gardner, beloved father, grandfather and friend, passed away on July 29, 2024, at the age of 56. He was born on August 27, 1967, in Milwaukee, WI. Lee accepted Christ at an early age at Incarnation Lutheran Church. His formal education was as a student in the Milwaukee Public Schools district.

Lee was a man of many passions. He found solace and joy in fishing, cooking, and doing home improvement projects. His favorite foods included soul food and peppers. He had an eclectic taste in music, with Prince being one of his favorite artists.

However, Lee’s greatest love was his friendship with his dogs, Groucho and Bear. They brought him immense happiness and companionship throughout his life. He was known by his friends and family as Lee bo. Some also affectionately called him Red Rider.

Lee had a unique sense of humor and was always quick to make others smile and laugh. His handsome, charming and comical personality was truly infectious. He was a genius when it came to fixing things around the house and he never shied away from a challenge.

One of lee’s proudest accomplishments was being a loving grandfather to his grandchildren. He cherished them deeply and brought joy to their lives. Additionally, his love for barbequing was well-known amongst his loved ones.

Lee touched the lives of many around him, with his ability to turn enemies into friends. He had a genuine knack for making people feel at ease and forging strong connections. His favorite quotes, such as “Hold that thought!” “I need you like a fish needs a raincoat,” and “Caller, are you there?” will always be remembered by those who knew him.

Lee A. Gardner was preceded in death by his mother, Mary L. Jones; his father, Chester J. Shellman; and his siblings, Leon Gardner, Diane Gardner, Anthony R. Gardner, Darren Avery and Jeffery Avery. Lee A. Gardner leaves to cherish his memory his son’s, Lee D. Strawder and Cortney Sears; his son-in-law, Michael Thomas; his daughters, Tyiesha Harris and Christina Kelley; his granddaughter’s Timari Robinson, Timira Robinson, Timia Robinson, Lee’Asia Strawder, and Ailani Thomas; his grandsons, Timothy Robinson Jr., Maurice Jorden, Austin Jorden, Michael Thomas, Messiah Thomas, Jesus Thomas, Von Holt III, Priest Thomas and AmunRa Thomas; his brothers, Robert L. Gardner, James H. Gardner, Douglas E. Gardner, Christopher L. (Tylisha) Jones and Jerome (Sandy) Avery; and his sisters, Mary E. Harris and LaVerne Gardner.

Lee A. Gardner will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on in their hearts, where his laughter and love will forever remain. Rest in peace, Lee.

Visitation will be held for lee on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 10:00am until the time of services at 12:00 Noon, all at Jelacic Funeral Home Inc., 5639 West Hampton Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53218. Interment will follow the service at Graceland Cemetery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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