Thomas William Gardner

Thomas William Gardner, age 74, of Mount Royal, NJ, went home to be with the Lord on March 1, 2026, surrounded by the endless love of his family. He was the first born son of the late Charles and Joan Travers Gardner. They moved to Delran, NJ when he was 12 years old. Tommy was the devoted husband to Elena, proud father to Zachary and Joshua, supportive brother-in-law to Krista, who he thought of as a daughter, and best friend to many. With broken hearts and eternal gratitude we honor the beautiful life of a remarkable man that was the force at the center of our world.

To his wife, Teg was a true partner in every sense of the word. He believed in her, stood beside her, and built a life grounded in loyalty, laughter, and shared dreams. Their marriage of 35 years was not just a story of unwavering love. Their bond and friendship deepened with every year.

To his sons, Pop was the best dad anyone could have hoped for. He showed up for games, school events, late night talks at the kitchen table, and every moment in between. He taught by example that family always comes first, love is shown through actions, and to forgive quickly. He was the voice reminding them to push harder and never quit.

To his sister-in-law, Tommy was the hero, a role that came naturally to him. He took care of her selflessly, not for recognition, but for her health, happiness, and security. He loved her unconditionally without hesitation. He was the calm, safe place she called home.

From a young age strength and determination defined him. In Riverside High School he was chosen as captain of the wrestling team and left his mark on the football field. He was never just strong in body, but strong in character too. He led with his smarts, grit, and confidence. Friends were drawn to Beav's larger than life personality. They dressed up for dances, raced cars on Taylors Lane, and rode everything from horses to Harleys.

After graduating, he served his country honorably in the Army with courage and discipline. They awarded him the National Defense Service Medal and Sharp Shooter M16 Badge. Protecting the people he loved was of utmost importance to him.

As a union Boilermaker, hard work was not something he talked about. It was something he did every single day to provide for his family. He was the fixer of broken things that earned respect by living it. Breezy had a way of turning ordinary moments into the funniest jokes and stories. He was awarded the 50 year service pin for his commitment and talent. He felt honored that his sons followed in his footprints.

That warrior spirit was what carried him through his battle with cancer. Beyond the toughness was a generous man full of heart. He had a soft spot for the dogs, Julia and Bruce, who were his constant companions. He enjoyed watching sports with his boys, singing to his girls, being at the seashore, drawing like his mom, and making every celebration special. The Gardner 5 was his greatest joy. Nothing made him happier than to hear laughing echo through the house, watching his children grow, holding his wife's hand, and knowing his family was together.

Tommy's legacy is the extraordinary love he poured into his adoring family that will last forever. He lived his life with integrity, perseverance, and resilience. Those lessons and many more remain our guiding light in the darkest of times. We will always hold his cherished memory in our hearts and the impact of his life will never fade.

XO XO " I love you, goodnight, I'll see you in the morning " XO XO

Friends may greet the family on March 14, 2026 from 9:30am - 10:45am at Church of the Incarnation 240 Main Street Mantua, NJ 08051. The funeral mass will be at 11am with Military Honors immediately following. The luncheon is at 12pm at the Telford Inn 145 Bridgeton Pike Mantua, NJ 08051.