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'Pastor Fred' retires, heading to Israel

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By LAURA CONE THE SUN

Published: July 1, 2009

He may be known as a sweet person, but to some, it is his dry sense of humor that makes him so unique.

"He makes a comment and walks away and then everyone gets it," said Montgomery, an office administrator at United Methodist Church of Sun City Center.

Gardner, or "Pastor Fred," is retiring after 40 years in the ministry. He spent the past four serving as the associate pastor at United Methodist, known for its contemporary coffee-house style services and youth ministry.

Montgomery said Gardner not only handled hospital visits but also has a talent for being a sound engineer.

"Anytime we had a concert, he would be in the sound booth," she said. "He helped the music department when they were making a CD. He has a real talent."

Gardner lives in Largo with his wife, Mary Ellen. They have two grown children and three grandsons. Avid travelers, Fred and Mary Ellen have trekked to the Holy Land as well as to Jordan, Egypt and Greece.

"Among all the churches I could have served it was a good place to go to," said Gardner. "It's a good church. They are trying to be progressive."

Originally from Indianapolis, he grew up in Pinellas Park, and spent decades serving as a senior pastor at various Central Florida churches.

Most of his time in SCC was devoted to visiting those in hospitals, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers. He presided over the funerals of many church members and their families.

"I just wanted to give them comfort and encouragement and help them feel better and grow in their spirit," said Gardner, adding that he often prayed for and with people. "I will miss being with the people and helping them to have a better life and be closer to God."

His plans after retirement include working for a Christian media company, Good News Media Ministries of Macon, Ga., setting up equipment for lighting, video projection and recordings for conferences and conventions.

"It's been a hobby of mine, working with sound systems and techie things," he said. "I put in 40 years. Our life goes in seasons and stages. It's time to move on to other things."

His church work included serving on many conferences and district committees. Some of the topics include family life, camping, district board of ministry, the District Council on Ministries, communications, nominations and even the Board of Missions and Church Extension.

He is a trained and certified volunteer law enforcement chaplain and has worked with the Marion County Sheriff's Office as well as the Ocala, Okeechobee, Lake Worth and Clearwater police departments.

Members of the church had a special celebration for Gardner June 20, not only to bid him farewell but also to wish him well as he prepares to journey to Israel in August. While there he will fill in as a preacher for a Methodist missionary couple.

Editor Laura Cone may be reached at lcone@mediageneral.com.

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