Thomas Edwin Gardner, 69, of Franklin, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2020.

Born in Hamilton County, Ohio, he was a son of the late Bertram Joseph and Nancy Jean Gardner. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gregory Joseph Gardner. Tom moved to the area in 2000 and faithfully attended Cowee Baptist Church. He was a great auto salesman and enjoyed astronomy. Tom was fascinated by and learned a lot about gemstones. He loved his dogs, watching and feeding the wild birds and all animals.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Marie Pierce Gardner; his siblings, Christine Kehle Mercier (Ronald) of Sylva, Paul Gregory Kehle (Lara) of Pittsboro, NC and Stephanie Shumate of Richmond, VA.

Memorial Services will be held Sunday October 18, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Macon Funeral Home

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Condolences can be made to the family at www.maconfuneralhome.com.