Bud Gardner's Obituary
Blanchard “Bud” Gardner, 90, died on August 1, 2017. He was a native of Monroeville, Alabama and a longtime resident of Memphis, Tennessee. As a young man, Gardner served in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany immediately following the end of World War II. He studied Art at Auburn University and upon graduation used his creative talents to pursue a career in advertising. Bud began his career as a creative director with Noble Dury Advertising Agency, where he served clients such as Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut, Holiday Inn, Riceland Rice and Bush Brothers. After 30 years he left Noble Dury and started his own agency.Bud loved to travel and cultivated an appreciation for artisan breads during his numerous trips to Europe. He helped open City Bread Company to share this passion with the people of Memphis. Upon retirement, Bud turned his artistic endeavors to woodturning and spent many years honing his craft. His work was admirable and worthy of sale, but Bud preferred to donate his pieces to raise funds for worthy causes that were important to him and the community. Bud was a member of the Ad Club, Memphis Ads Fraternity and the Art Directors Club. He will be fondly remembered by his family, and many friends who he loved dearly.Bud was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth “Libba” Gardner. He leaves behind two sons, Thomas E. Gardner (Lucy) of Memphis and Robert B. Gardner (Kim) of Mandeville, LA, and a daughter, Leigh Carter, of Memphis. He has five grandchildren and four great-children.A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 5 at 10:30 a.m. in Memorial Park Cemetery.In lieu of flowers Bud requested that donations be made to the Child Advocacy Center, Playhouse on the Square, the Memphis Chamber Music Society or the charity of your choice. .
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