Robert Thomas Gardner, Jr.

Robert “Bob” Thomas Gardner, Jr., 55 of Carolina, passed away unexpectedly in the line of duty as a firefighter for the Richmond Carolina Fire District. He was the loving husband of Christine Ruth (Chalifoux) Gardner. Born in Pawtucket, RI on February 20, 1967, he was the son of Elizabeth Ann (Hemond) Bray and Robert J. Bray.

Bob worked as a truck driver his whole life; even before he had his driver’s license. He worked at many trucking operations where he met many of his lifelong friends.. He previously worked at Richmond Public Works for almost five years and most recently worked at Richmond Sand and Stone. Bob was passionate about his volunteer work with the Fire Department. He volunteered at the Charlestown Fire Department in 2004 to 2010 where he obtained the rank of Captain, he then volunteered at the Richmond Carolina Fire Department from 2008 until present where he recently stepped down as deputy chief. Bob was very involved with the Town of Richmond and took great pride in helping his community. Also, he was a dedicated member of the Carolina district board. Bob enjoyed classic movies like Smokey and the Bandit along with listening to classic rock like Molly Hatchet. Bob was also an avid car enthusiast, he worked on anything with a motor especially motorcycles. But most of all Bob enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially over a morning breakfast.

Besides his wife and parents, he leaves his children Derek O. Gardner and his wife Amanda, Adam T. Gardner, along with Kevin R. Gardner and his wife Rayanne. He leaves his grandson Dominic T. Gardner. He also leaves his brothers and sisters along with his several nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his beloved dog Turbo. He was preceded in death by his fellow brothers and sisters of the fire and emergency services.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s name to the Special Olympics, 370
George Washington Hwy, Smithfield, RI 02917.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, February 1st from 2:00pm to 7:00pm at the S.R. Avery Funeral Home, 3A Bank St., Hope Valley, RI 02832. Funeral services will be held the following day, Thursday, February 2nd at 11:00 am at The Richmond Carolina Fire Station, 208 Richmond Townhouse Rd. Richmond. All are welcome to gather directly at the fire station. Committal services will be held privately.

For online condolences, please visit www.averyfuneralhome.com.

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