Brent Chapman Gardiner, Sr. was the kind of man who changed the people around him. He served his country as an Engineman Second Class in the U.S. Navy from 2003 to 2007, carrying the pride and purpose of his service long after his time in uniform ended.

He was the person you could always count on. If you needed help, he was there. Some of us can’t always help ourselves, but we are still there to help anyone in need, in despair, or in pain. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from. Call on us. We’ve got your back.

His life was not without pain. Like many veterans, he carried burdens that few could see. But even when his own world felt heavy, he lifted others. He found strength in helping people and pride in being someone others could rely on.

Brent’s passing leaves a void that words cannot fill. His family has endured deep loss, yet they continue to face each day with the same courage he showed in service. This fund is to help them through this difficult time, to cover funeral expenses, and to support his son, Brent Jr., as he carries his father’s legacy forward.

If you have been putting off a call, a visit, or a message, reach out. Life is too short to let pride or distance keep us apart. Forgive and forget. Be a better human than you were yesterday.

Brent lived with heart and left with honor. Let us now carry that forward.

Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. We have the watch. Vets matter. You matter.