Ronald "Ronnie" Gardner

Mr. Ronald Henry Gardner, age 71, of Meridian, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, January 5, 2026, at his residence. At this time, there are no services scheduled. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

Ronnie was born on February 15, 1954, in Meridian, Mississippi, to the late Sula Mae and JC Gardner. He attended Meridian High School and graduated in 1972. He went on to study through the American College of Financial Services, receiving multiple designations in the insurance business. He had a long, successful career with New York Life, retiring after 41 years, mentoring many successful agents. In 1995, he married the love of his life, Debbie Neville Gardner. They spent over 30 blissful years together, traveling to many beautiful places all over the country in their camper. Ronnie was an exceptionally loving, kind, and giving man who loved his family fiercely. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Gardner, sons, David (Elizabeth) and Robert; brothers, Donnie (Joan), Johnny (Sissy); siblings-in-law, Dean (Wanda), and Lisa (Rusty), uncle and namesake, HF Boswell, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Linda, and sister-in-law, Dixie (Tom).

The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to the wonderful nurses at Accent Care.

The family requests donations to the Northwest Florida State Community College Foundation, with the designation of the Dixie Ferguson Memorial Scholarship Fund.