Samuel Ralph Gardner, Jr. died peacefully March 13, 2010, surrounded by family in his home at the Waterford. His health had been deteriorating for about a year. Sam was one of ten children born to Ina Caroline Montgomery and Samuel Ralph Gardner. He was born in Springfield and lived here most of his life. He served in the Army during WWII. Sam married Jo Sorrell on July 15, 1950. They had one daughter, Rhonda Mammen of Springfield. Sam was a faithful member of Central Christian Church, serving as treasurer and deacon for many years. He spent all of his working years at Mercantile Bank (formerly Southern Missouri Trust Company), retiring in July 1985 after 47 years of service. Sam served on many civic boards and charitable organizations. He always worked and supported projects for the betterment of Springfield. Sam is survived by his wife, Jo, of the home; daughter, Rhonda Mammen of Springfield; granddaughters, Megan Mammen of Topeka, Kan., and Mackenzie McKinney and her husband Jon of Ozark; one great-granddaughter, Olivia Grace McKinney; sister, Pat Meyer of Springfield; and brother, Jim Gardner and his wife Naomi of Springfield; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 16, 2010, in Hazelwood Cemetery prior to the memorial service at 11 a.m. Tuesday in Central Christian Church with Reverend John Andrews officiating under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2010 in the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Central Christian Church or the charity of your choice.