Herbert Gardner

Herbert Ray Gardner, age 89 of Lebanon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Traditions of Lebanon. Born on October 30, 1936 in Georgetown, Ohio, he was the son of the late Herbert E. Gardner and Helen Rae (Bolender) Mills.

A proud United States Army veteran, Herbert graduated from Morehead State University and Xavier University. He devoted more than three decades to education, beginning as a basketball coach at Norwood High School, where he instilled teamwork and discipline in his players. He later served as Superintendent of Lebanon City Schools, providing steady leadership, thoughtful guidance, and genuine compassion that left a lasting impact on students, educators, and families throughout the community. After retiring from public education, he continued to apply his skills in planning and relationship-building as Business Development Manager for SHP Architects and Design.

Herbert was an avid golfer who enjoyed many memorable rounds in Hawaii, Hilton Head, and Gatlinburg. Known as a true people person, he was outgoing, warm, and always ready to connect with others. For the past 20 years he was a steadfast supporter of Miami University, reflecting his lifelong commitment to education and the development of future generations.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lulla B. (Webb) Gardner; two children, Brent Gardner and wife Natalie of Lebanon, Ohio and Gwen Rucker; three grandchildren, Kelsi Gardner of Lebanon, Ohio, Kristin Phelps and husband John of Morrow, Ohio, and Grant Gardner of Lebanon, Ohio; three great-grandchildren, Elias, Cecilia, and Vivian Phelps of Morrow, Ohio; and three brothers, Gary Mills of California, Lynn Gardner of Georgetown, Ohio, and Larry Gardner and wife Liz of Georgetown, Ohio.