Roby Gerald Gardner, Sr., of Hillsville, also known as P-pa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, passed away peacefully with his family and caregiver at his side at Waddell Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on January 20, 2010 at the age of 92. Mr. Gardner was a graduate of Woodlawn High School, class of 1934. He was accepted for admission to Virginia Tech, but as the youngest child of eleven, he stayed home to help his father operate the family farm and milling company. A lifelong resident of Carroll County, Mr. Gardner was a farmer and livestock dealer for 75 years who was known as "Keno". He was also the former owner and operator of Galax Livestock Market and co-owner of Gardner Milling Company and was a lifelong member of Carroll County Farm Bureau. Mr. Gardner was a member of Hillsville Christian Church where he served as a deacon and member of the church board. He was also a member of Blue Ridge Country Club where he enjoyed playing golf until he was 89. He scored a hole-in-one on two separate occasions and was an avid bowler. Born in Carroll County on February 3, 1917, Mr. Gardner was the son of the late Alexander Lafayette and Fannie Vass Gardner. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Eileen Worrell Gardner, four brothers, and five sisters. Survivors include son, Roby Gardner & wife Mary of Johnson City, TN; daughter, Margaret Gardner Leggett & husband Vance of Hillsville; five grandchildren Gerry Gardner and Lisa Watson of Tennessee, Jeff Guill, Jason Guill, and Megan Reed of North Carolina; two step-grandchildren, Will Leggett and Ginny Reynolds of Virginia; thirteen great grandchildren; and one sister, Anne Wylie of Waynesboro, VA. The family expresses their sincere appreciation to Elsie Cockerham, his devoted caregiver and angel on earth, as well as the compassionate and caring staff of Waddell Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. A graveside service with burial following will be on Sunday, January 24, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the John Henry Gardner Cemetery on Bronco Road with Dr. John Dunstan and Peggy Rodgers Leggett speaking. The family will receive friends at Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel on Sunday from 12:00 until 1:30 PM. Although flowers are appreciated, please consider a donation to Hillsville Christian Church or the John Henry Gardner Cemetery. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.