Bob Gard

Robert Drue Gard of Canton, GA known to most of us simply as Bob, passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife of 55 years, Camille and the family he cherished so deeply.

Bob was born during the Second World War, in Selma, Alabama — the youngest son of a proud military father. His early years were marked by the kind of adventure few children experience. From the quiet rhythms of life in Biloxi, Mississippi, to the island beauty of Hawaii, Bob’s childhood was shaped by travel, family, and a deep sense of purpose.

He attended school on the base in Honolulu, where each morning he could look out the window and see the resting place of the USS Arizona. Even as a boy, he was surrounded by reminders of service, sacrifice, and honor — themes that would continue to guide his life.

When his time came, Bob followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Navy. He served his country during the Vietnam War, stationed aboard the USS Wrangell. He carried that experience with quiet pride — not one to boast, but always one to serve.

After returning home, life gave Bob the greatest gift of all: he met Camille, the love of his life. For 55 years, theirs has been a love story that stands as an example to all who know them — built on faith, laughter, devotion, and an unshakable bond. Together they raised two beautiful daughters, Ginger and Tiffany, and through them came five grandchildren who lit up his world.

Bob’s journey from humble beginnings to remarkable success is the story of hard work and perseverance. What began in a simple chicken house — with paint, sweat, and determination — grew into a thriving Plantation Shutter business that became one of the most respected in the Southeast. But if you asked Bob, he’d tell you the real success wasn’t the business itself — it was the people, the relationships, and the trust that built it.

He was a man of quiet strength and deep faith. Whether serving at church, driving a church bus, or simply lending a helping hand wherever it was needed, Bob’s devotion to God and to others was constant and sincere. His faith wasn’t something he wore — it was something he lived.

And anyone who knew Bob will smile when they remember his signature greeting — that warm, familiar “Hey Bud” that seemed to make everything a little lighter. It didn’t matter who you were — a friend, a customer, a stranger — when Bob said “Hey Bud,” you felt seen, welcomed, and cared for.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that his journey is not over — that his faith has carried him home. The same God who guided his steps from Selma to the sea, from a humble workshop to a life well-lived, now welcomes him with open arms.

Bob Gard lived with purpose. He loved with all his heart. He served with humility. And though he may have left this world, the impact of his life — his laughter, his faith, his kindness — will live on in each of us.

Rest easy, Bob. We’ll miss your “Hey Bud,” but we’ll carry your spirit with us — today, and always.

Survived by his wife Camille Gard, His Brother Art ( and Anne) Gard, His twin sister Sue ( and Tony) McCoy. His daughter Ginger ( and Tim) Brenner and their son’s Luke and Christian, and his daughter Tiffany (and Colin) Rafferty and their children Ethan, Chloe & Finnian.

The family is accepting flowers, or in lieu of flowers donations to The Angel House of North Ga (see link below) in the name of Bob & Camille Gard.

https://angelhousegagive.harnessgiving.org/donate/?selected-method=one-time&amount=50&campaign_id=0

Service at South Canton Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 18th. Visitation 11:00-1:00. Service 1:00-2:00

South Canton Funeral Home, dedicated to the families we serve, 770-479-3377. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.thescfh.com