John Joseph “Jack” Gardner, age 70 of Shallotte, NC died at Novant Health Regional Medical Center Wilmington, NC on February 1, 2025, with his loving family by his side.

He was born on February 26, 1954, in Brooklyn, NY to the late William and Ann Opman Gardner. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Christopher Gardner and precious son Colin Gardner.

He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years Celeste Amodio Gardner formerly of Poughkeepsie, NY and now living in Shallotte, his beloved daughter Jodi Belleci (Mathew “Raz “, his granddaughters Mia, Maddie and Molly of Kailua, HI, his loving son Jonathan Gardner (Stephanie) of Myrtle Beach, SC; amazing brothers: Billy Gardner (Trish); Rod Gardner (Nancy); Tim Gardner (Nancy); brother-in-law Todd Amodio, several nieces, nephews and long times friends who loved him dearly.

He spent his early life in Maplewood, NJ and after graduating spent his career at Marist College in Inventory Control. Jack enjoyed fishing, golfing, riding Harleys, being outdoors and always the life of the party and king of the dance floor.

Jack was a loving husband, father, and Pop-Pop with a heart as big as the sun and who would help anyone. Jack was also a great listener who genuinely cared about other (or all) people. Jack had an amazing gift of making the best out of tough situations, usually a quick one liner to lighten the mood. His radiant smile lit up any room he entered. He lived life to the fullest and especially loved spending time with his family, friends, and his beloved dogs, KC and Leo

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:0am on July 11^th, 2025, at St. Brendan Catholic Church in Shallotte, NC. There will be a celebration of life following the mass and then we head to the beach for the weekend. We welcome all to join us if you are able.