On Sunday evening, March 19, 2017 at VCU Medical Center the voice was silenced of Mr. Raymond Edward Gardner our beloved brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

Raymond Edward Gardner was born June 11, 1960 in Jersey City, New Jersey to his late parents Norman Ford Gardner and Daisy Irene Gardner. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Barbara Gardner along with his two brothers James and Norman Gardner whom he loved dearly.

He was educated in the Jersey City Public School System. Raymond was a devout member of the Islamic community where he was known to many as Abdul Rasheed and also served as Imam. Throughout his life Raymond acquired vocational skills in electrical wiring and carpentry. Raymond was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching professional boxing, football, and basketball. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends where he was known to always provide a good laugh. He had a special way with words which were often positive and encouraging.

He leaves to cherish: one loving sister Linda Gardner of Waldorf Maryland, two devoted nieces who he referred to as his angels, Tanisha Green (Terrence Sr.) of Waverly, and Shirmere Gardner-Holloman (Kalanthial) of South Chesterfield, VA; four nephews, Daman Gardner of Waldorf, Md (Shannon), Desmond Gardner of Newport News, Va, Derrell Brown of Waverly, Va, and his main man Edward Gardner Sr. (Shawnise) of South Chesterfield, VA. A host of great nieces and nephews to include Tayjah, Tanea, Amari, Anijah, Terrence Jr., Savyhn, Dalana, Edward Jr., Caleb, Kyndall, Zy'air, and Skylar. He also leaves memories with a host of cousins devoted Wendell Bates of Jersey City, New Jersey and friends notably Robin Neal and her children Tashauna Sheppard, Tarvis Neal, and Dy'Quisha Neal.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Empowerment Temple Ministries 219 N. County Drive in Waverly, Virginia for viewing and reflections.