Thurland S. Gardner Jr.

Mr. Gardner, 73, (currently of Middleboro) passed away on August 8th after a period of failing health. He was the son of the late Thurland S. Gardner and Evelyn Gould Gardner. Growing up he was known as Junior but as he got older changed that to JR.
He is survived by his partner of 30 years, Linda J. Pratt; 3 brothers, Paul Gould and his wife Violet of Onset, Mark Gardner and his wife Kathleen of Bridgewater, Robert Gardner of Brockton and several nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Joyce Holbrook of Middleboro, Helen Johnson of Florida, and Richard (Buster) Gould of Oregon.
He was born and raised in Brockton, Mass and graduated from Brockton High. He was very active in sports and enjoyed working on cars, even competing in demolition derbies. He also enjoyed candlepin bowling as well as playing pool and was very good at both.
He and Linda met while bowling at Westgate Lanes in Brockton. They continued to bowl for many years, competing in tournaments and winning several events. Linda had 2 children from a previous relationship, a son Larry and daughter Holly who had 3 girls, Makayla, Olivia and Ava. He was there as they grew up and was always "Uncle J" to them. They will also feel his loss.
He and Linda eventually settled in Middleboro where they both retired. Over the years they spent time traveling. Their favorite was the cruise to Alaska, it was a memorable adventure. They also enjoyed several cruises to Bermuda, another favorite spot. They also shared a love for Yorkies and had 4 during their time together.
Junior held several jobs over the years, but he ended up doing what he enjoyed most, working with cars. He worked for a number of auto parts businesses in the Brockton area and eventually joined Greenleaf Auto Supply in Raynham until they closed. He then joined Allied Auto Parts, working in several locations until he retired.
He was always ready to lend a hand if someone needed help. Especially car trouble. He and his good friend Dennis (Mitch) Glavin spent time together, sometimes going to Raynham Park to catch the races.
He will be missed by many whose lives he touched.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visiting hours on Monday, August 19, 2024 from 4-7 PM in the Chapman Funeral Home, BRIDGEWATER.