Mr. Nelson Gardner

Nelson Gardner, 72, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at his home with his wife beside him. He was born on January 17, 1954, to Joyce H. Gardner and William Nelson Gardner in Hartsville, SC.

Nelson graduated from Chesterfield High School in 1972 and began his career in construction. He was hired by Duke Energy in 1978 at Catawba Nuclear Station and retired after 38 years of service from Oconee Nuclear Station in 2016. Nelson was a volunteer firefighter with the Flint Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Fort Mill, SC. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 51 and a Shriner. Nelson was of the Baptist faith and a member of Seneca Baptist Church for 31 years, where he served as a deacon, teacher, choir member, and helped with RAs.

Nelson enjoyed playing golf and attending Clemson football games with his family and friends, but most of all he loved watching his grandchildren play ball and watching his son coach softball at West-Oak High School.

In addition to his parents, Nelson was preceded in death by his son, Gabriel Nelson Gardner (Heather), and his brother, Jerry Gardner.

Nelson is survived by his wife of 48 years, Kathy; his son, Scott Gardner (Mandy); grandchildren: Russell Gardner (Samantha), Allie Wheeler (Cory), Savannah Gardner, Canan Voss, Connor Voss, and Lawton Voss; great-grandchildren: MJ Gardner and Blakeley Wheeler; sister, Sharon Kimrey (Mike); brothers: Jeff Gardner (Teresa), Scottie Gardner, and Chris Gardner; and many nieces and nephews.

Nelson was slow to anger, abounding in love, with a sweet spirit. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Davenport Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Prisma Health Hospice of the Foothills, Cottingham House, Attn: Foundation Office, 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29672.

The family is gathered at the home.