Wayne Hensdale Gardner

Wayne Hensdale Gardner, 76, of Fuquay-Varina passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025. Wayne was born in Fayetteville, NC on April 1, 1949 to the late Jake and Dorothy (Hensdale) Gardner.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sue Melvin Gardner; sons, Scott Gardner (wife, Allyson) and Sam Gardner; grandchildren, Dexter, Jacob, and Cole; brother, John Gardner (wife, Lucy); and many nieces and nephews and cousins.  Wayne also had a very close relationship with the large Melvin family.

He was a loving spouse, caring father and 'Papa', friend to all, and devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Wayne lived his life to the fullest and impacted so many lives with his kindness, generosity and tender spirit. He had a successful career in industrial sales. He helped to organize and lead over 30 mission trips to Mexico, Belize, Peru, Moldova and Ukraine that built churches from the ground up, repaired orphanages, provided medical care in remote villages, and spread the gospel. Wayne was very active in his church communities serving as an elder, deacon, praise and worship drummer, and leading Royal Rangers and children's outreach. For over 40-years, he was a member of and served with purpose at First Assembly of God (Hickory, NC), Christ Alive (Hickory, NC), Evangel Church (Fuquay Varina, NC) and Church Alive (Fuquay Varina, NC). Family meant the world to him and he showed it through his actions by his dedication to his wife, support of his sons and their spouses, and affection for his grandkids. He was steadfast in his helping hands with his parents and frequent communications and support of his brother, cousins and many extended family members.

A celebration of life service to honor Wayne will be held on May 17, 2025 at 1pm at Church Alive in Fuquay Varina, NC (6109 NC-55 STE 122, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526).

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