Thomas Howard Clements Gardner

Thomas Howard Clements Gardner, formerly of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in Chesterfield County, Virginia, after a heroic battle with Sepsis. He was the son of Major General, (USMC, Ret.) Donald Ray and Mrs. Elaine Clements Gardner. Thomas lived the life of a typical military brat, going to school in Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, Stuttgart, Germany, and New York. He graduated from Long Island Lutheran High School. He received his AA from Coastal Carolina Community College and his BA from Elon College, where he was a member of Kappa Alpha Order, Epsilon Mu Chapter, and played football. Thomas earned his MA from Virginia State University. He then taught at Chowan College and coached football. He then moved to Elizabeth City and taught in the Camden County Schools for over twenty years. He coached football and track, and became the Alternative Learning Teacher until his illness. Thomas loved football, basketball, and anything outside. He was a superb cook. In addition to his parents, he leaves behind his beloved sister, Lisa O'Connor (Daniel); two nieces, Allison O'Connor and Maggie O'Connor (Denzel Saraka); as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends all over the country. A family service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, Chester, Virginia.