Mr. Kennie Lee Gardner, 65, of Newark, Arkansas departed this life on September 10, 2016. He was born January 7, 1951, at Allen Hospital in Batesville, the son of Oness and Nola (Burge) Gardner. He married Miss Patricia Wherry on April 1, 1972, and they enjoyed 44 years together. Mr. Gardner worked in construction many years as a General foreman supervisor, building chemical power plants. He was compassionate and caring, and always helped anyone without ever expecting anything in return. He enjoyed traveling, and spending time with friends. He especially treasured the time he spent with his family. Mr. Gardner was preceded in death by one brother, Gary Dale Gardner; two sisters, Karen Gail Gardner, and Willeen Brooks; his parents, Oness and Nola Gardner; and a special dog named Wilbur. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Patricia Gardner of Newark; one daughter Karen Gardner Neal and husband, Clark of Batesville; one granddaughter, Lynleigh Claire Neal, of Batesville; two brothers Neill Gardner of Nixa, Missouri, and Obbie Gardner of Sulphur Rock; one sister, Linda Stephens of Sulphur Rock; and a lifetime of friends. Funeral services are 11:00 a.m. Monday at Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Blue Springs Cemetery at Newark. Friends may visit at the funeral home, Monday, 10:00 a.m. until service time. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Kerry Brooks, Lucas Jeffery, Ronnie Carter, Benny Goings, and Jerry Bullington. Honorary pallbearers are Danny McClain, Edward Lovejoy, Tommy Horton, and Frankie’s O.F. Crew. Arrangements by Jackson’s Newport Funeral Home.