James Earl Gardner, respected farmer and rancher, died peacefully on June 26, 2010 after joyfully and enthusiastically living a life filled with faith and family.

James was born to Sam and Lilla Gardner on Jan. 21, 1919 in Rising Star, Texas. He had a happy childhood with six brothers and three sisters, many of whom he helped raise after the death of his father. He married Alta Baucum on Dec. 19, 1938, and they shared life to the fullest for 71 years. They farmed in Ropesville, Kress and Edmonson, ranched at Cisco and retired to Wolfforth, Texas. James lived for 91 years seeking to serve God faithfully and raise his family lovingly, setting an example worthy to follow.

Survivors include his wife, Alta, and their three children, Stanley and Peni Gardner of Granbury, Texas, Ann and Wayne Holland of Lubbock and Randy and Patty Gardner of San Angelo. James is also survived by ten grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, as well as a brother, T.D. (Duke) Gardner of Houston; two sisters, Dorothy Adams of Lubbock and Lavanne Emery of Tyler; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved with his whole heart.
James worked from sunup to dark thirty all his life. Few could match him at horse trading or playing dominos or 42. Whether at his daily witnessing for the Lord or playing in the floor with his grandchildren, his zest for life and his energy seemed endless. He never met a stranger and would be the last man out of a crisis, helping others first. His family rejoices he is finally 'home' at the feet of Jesus.

A viewing and visitation will be on Tuesday, June 29th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers, 6025 82nd St., Lubbock, TX. The memorial service will be Wednesday, June 30th, 2010 at 1 p.m., also at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers.