Hampton Gardner Sr. peacefully entered eternal rest on May 14, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on September 18, 1934, in Rembert, to the late Robert “Took” Gardner and Sarah Chambers Gardner. Hampton was raised with strong values that would shape his life of service and dedication. He was educated at Rafting Creek Elementary School and graduated from Lincoln High School, Class of 1953. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Morris College in Sumter, and pursued further studies at South Carolina State College in Orangeburg and Francis Marion College in Florence. On May 28, 1962, Hampton married the love of his life, Esther Waiters. Together they built a loving home, and they were blessed with five children. A man of deep faith, Hampton became a member of Rafting Creek Baptist Church at a young age. Over the years, he served faithfully in numerous roles including president of the senior choir, financial secretary of the male choir, and superintendent of the Sunday School for 33 years. Ordained on December 29, 1985, he tirelessly served 40 years as Deacon, and due to a decline in health, the title Deacon Emeritus was bestowed upon him. Hampton was a proud member and Past Master of Composite Masonic Lodge #372, Prince Hall Affiliate, Camden, SC, and a member and Past Worthy Patron of Composite Chapter 227, Order of the Eastern Stars, Camden, SC. He became known and was commonly referred to as the “Praying Mason” among Masons throughout the state of South Carolina. He is survived by his loving wife, children and a host of other relatives and friends. The family will receive relatives and friends at the home, 135 Louis Circle, Rembert. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a. m., Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Rafting Creek Baptist Church, 3860 Highway 261 North, Rembert , with the Rev. Melvin Mack, Pastor. Burial will follow in the Rafting Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
Condolence Messages
Leave Your Condolence
Please feel free to sign the Guest Register and forward your condolences to friends and family members who have suffered a loss. Please enter your words of remembrance in the space provided. You may select whether you wish for us to deliver them to the family, display them online or both. Please note that Williams Funeral Home, Inc. will review all messages before they are published on the world-wide web or forwarded to family members. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Thank-you.