James O. Gardner, 77, of Doswell, VA, formerly of Bethlehem, died Sunday, May 23, 2010 at the Memorial Region Medical Center, Mechanicsville, VA. He is the husband of Sandra G. (Gross) Gardner.

Born in Lower Saucon Twp. on June 18, 1932 to the late Elmer and Flora (Weber) Gardner. James was an insurance agent for Nationwide, Nazareth for 13 years until reitiring in 1995. He previously was a mortgage officer at the Keystone Savings and Loan for 10 years. He served this country honorably during the Korean War in the US Air Force; was Past President and former member of the Nazareth Lions Club; and was a 32nd Degree Mason, Valley of Allentown; and a member of the F & A.M. Bethlehem. He was a lifelong member of Lower Saucon United Church of Christ, Hellertown where he served as a Sunday school teacher and consistory member. He enjoyed being a hugger for Special Olympics.

Survivors: In addition to his loving Wife of 47 years; Daughter, Martha O., wife of Frederick Cook of Doswell, VA; and Grandson, James Jefferson Cook. Predeceased by siblings, Howard, Frank, Flora, Robert.

Services: Family and friends may call 1 – 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc. 326 Main St. Hellertown followed by the service at 2 p.m. Interment with military honors will conclude services at the Union Cemetery of Hellertown.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Phoebe Home, 1925 West Turner St. Allentown, PA 18104-5513.