Robert Arnold "Bert" Gardner, 53 of Waycross died Saturday, June 13, 2020. The New York native had lived in Ware County the past 30 years and was a former correction officer at Ware State Prison in Waycross.  He enjoyed fishing, painting and spending time with his family.  He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Arnold and Donna Gardner.

Survivors are fiancé, Michelle Beck of Waycross; 3 sons, Cole Gardner and fiancé, Felicia Stewart of Jesup, Garrett (Amy) Gardner of Screven and Blake (Lexi) Gardner of Blackshear; 7 grandchildren; two sisters, Lillian (Alvin) Keener of Goldsberg, NC and Peggy (Jim) Bowen of Metter; two brothers, Joe (Anita) Gardner and Michael (Melissa) Gardner, both of Screven; several other extended relatives.

Memorial services will be held by the family.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.