Vere Craig Gardner

With a heavy heart, but peaceful spirit, I’d like to let everyone know about our friend and former “Gardener”, Vere Craig Gardner. He went to be with our Lord and Savior yesterday, Saturday, March 19, 2022. His battle with cancer and all the demons that go along with it are now over. I honestly believe he held on to see a glimpse of Spring here on earth as this was his most favorite time of year. Vere was 62 and was born and raised in Indiana. He later moved here he told me because of the love of our Southern Hospitality, longer summers and mild winters. Many of you knew him as our “grounds keeper” and driving the Big Blue Van. He was an expert in bushes, trees, flowers, and shrubbery and had a large passion for all plants and nature. Some of you knew him from the volunteer work he did for over a year in Smithville when the devastating and deadly tornado hit in April 2011. He met and made so many friends through that ministry. Some of you may have known him from giving his time to loading, picking up stock, and overseeing the Blessing Box here in Amory from the start of it over six years ago.

Vere was a man of few words in passing but if he knew you he could talk your ears off. He had a passion for our country, nature, wood working, old black and white movies, and for helping the less fortunate (even though he never saw himself that way after being homeless many times in his life). Vere loved books and reading and was attracted to people with intellectual conversations. He would absorb your knowledge. He loved to dress up in a suit and tie and attend church as many thought at times he was a “preacher”. I am proud to say Vere gave his soul to Christ when he was in the hospital as he began his fight with cancer over two years ago. His battle has been won! He fought the good fight.