Allen "Bruce" Gardner, age 61, of Live Oak, Fla., passed away on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. He was born in Lake City on October 21, 1963, to Jackie Sapp and Early Bascom Gardner and was a lifelong resident of Suwannee County.
Bruce was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He spent as much time with his sons as he could and had the privilege of coaching his sons through the years in several sports. Bruce was a huge Florida Gator fan and spent as much time spoiling his grandchildren as possible.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dustin Gardner; and beloved wife of 37 years, Sarah H. Gardner. Survivors include his sons, Brandon Gardner (Darlene) of Live Oak, J.D. Strickland (Jessica) of Keystone Heights, and Dillon Gardner of Live Oak; sisters, Sharrone Davidson (Steve) of Advance, N.C., Gloria Davis (Frank) of Lake City, Wanda Strickland (Jerry) of McAlpin; mother-in-law, Lorena Barclay; sister-in-law, Lazoni Jones (Jimmie); grandchildren, Myliegh, Arianna, Brayden, Brandon, Landon, Gabriel and Willow; nieces and nephew, Sarah (Chris), Stephanie (Mike), Steven and Wendy; along with numerous other family members and friends.
A Celebration of Bruce's Life will be held at a later date.
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to the dedicated care of Blackburn-Curry Funeral & Cremation, 380 N Lowder St., Macclenny, Fla. 32063, (904) 259-2806.
