James K. Gardner, age 83, of Crocker formerly of Iberia, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2015, at Phelps County Regional Medical Center in Rolla. He was born in Iberia on November 15, 1931, son of the late Arthur and Ruby (Helton) Gardner. On July 15, 1950, in Crocker, James married Vivian Duncan, who survives at the home.

James worked as a federal firefighter for over 30 years at Fort Leonard Wood Army Base until his retirement in 1984. After retirement he owned and operated Jimmy Jack's Flea Market in Iberia. He also drove the bus for Iberia Head Start School for many years. James also served as the Iberia Fire Chief for the volunteer fire department.

He was a past member of the Iberia Masonic Lodge and was a member of the Congregational Christian Church of Iberia.

In addition to his wife, Vivian Gardner, he is also survived by six children, Lindie Bethurem of Crocker, Cindie Cook and husband Fred of St. Robert, Rita Simpson and husband Bob of Crocker, Kenny Gardner and wife Donna of Crocker, Douglas Gardner and wife Ruth of Columbia, and Starla Wiggs and husband Fred of Richland; ten grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jerry Gardner of Waynesville.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two grandsons.

Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., with services immediately following at 1:30 p.m., on Sunday, March 8, at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia. Rev. Dr. Wayne Cogell will officiate. Interment will be in Livingston Cemetery in Iberia.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.