Grady Franklin R. Gardner

Grady Franklin R. Gardner, 85 was born in Forsyth, GA on January 30, 1938 and passed away February 8, 2023. He was predeceased by his parents, Wiley T. and Doris Gardner Singley, sister Margie Florene Purser, sister Peggy Gardner Yarbrough. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Melba M. Purser Gardner, son, Rick Gardner (Sharon), daughter Phyllis Aycock, grandchildren, Christine Barnes (Dan), Matt Aycock (Annie), Kyle Aycock, Justin Gardner, Casie McCollum (Colby), Taylor Harris (George), great grandchildren, Jake Barnes, Luke Barnes, Logan Barnes, Jenna Barnes, Coralee Aycock, Molly Kate Aycock, Baylor Aycock, Sofia Gardner, Jacob Gardner, brother Ronnie C. Gardner, brothers-in-law and sisters- in-law and many nieces and nephews. Franklin graduated from Mary Persons High School in Forsyth, GA; where he was a star football athlete. He loved his alma mater, and would follow the football program and attended games for many years. He was co-founder of North Clayton Athletic Association, where he volunteered for over 20 years, and started the football and baseball little league program. He was a veteran and served four years in the Navy. He worked for AeroNautical Radio for many years, and retired from Naval Air Station as an electronic technician. Franklin was an avid "Beagler", and won regional and national awards. He was inducted into the National Beagling Breeders Hall of Fame in 2009, where he was a Chairman for 20 years. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 10, 2023 with funeral services following at 11:00 a.m. at Monroe County Memorial Chapel, with Brian Moore officiating. Interment service to follow at New Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in Smarr, GA. Monroe County Memorial Chapel has charge of arrangements.