Beau Marlett Gardner, 47, of Lexington, died, Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Forsyth Medical Center following a courageous and heroic battle with a sudden, unexpected illness.

The family will recieve friends from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Davidson Funeral Home, Hickory Tree Chapel.

Beau was born on March 1, 1979, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After his family relocated to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, he graduated from Robert B. Glenn High School, where you would often see him playing the tuba in marching band.

Those who knew Beau will forever remember his infectious smile, unmistakable laugh, and ability to make everyone around him feel welcome. He knew everything, and if someone had a question—about anything—Beau was the person they asked. He had a quick wit, compassionate heart, unwavering work ethic, and genuine love of life.

Beau was the life of any party. His presence during holidays and family gatherings showed his love of nostalgic stories, bad jokes, and family. His brother and sister treasure countless memories of growing up with him—stories that continue to bring smiles even through tears.

Driven by a passion for learning and education, Beau graduated Summa Cum Laude from NC State University, earning a degree in Engineering Technology and Design. With a focus on education, he would dedicate his career to inspiring young minds as an engineering and technology teacher at Atkins High School. Robotics was a great passion of his, and he would encourage students to explore, create, and believe in their own potential.

Beyond the classroom, Beau embraced life with self-assurance and lots of humor. He loved music, singing and playing his prized ukelele, and was rarely without a handy-man project in the works. Whether woodworking, restoring a car, or tackling another hands-on challenge, Beau's ingenuity and determination were evident in everything he did.

Above all else, Beau cherished his family. He fiercely loved his wife, Jessica, and his daughter, Grace, and he took immense pride in both of them. They were the center of his world, and he never missed an opportunity to show his love and support. Beau believed his greatest accomplishments were marrying Jessica and being Grace’s Dad.

Beau fought a courageous and heroic battle against a sudden, unexpected illness. Though his time with us was far too short, Beau leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, curiosity, and love. His impact will continue to live on through his family, his students, his friends, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered always, missed beyond words, and loved forever.

He was preceeded in death by his father, Henry Theodore Gardner, Jr.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Jessica Gardner; daughter, Grace Gardner (Landon Rogers); mother, Kathleen Gardner; brother, John Gardner (Kim); sister, Shellie Bowlin (Shannon); and a host of loving extended family members and friends. 

Davidson Funeral Home, Hickory Tree Chapel is honored to serve the Gardner family.