Gardnell was born September 16, 1947 in Washington, DC to the late Constance and Ralph Myers. He was the youngest of 14 children born to this union.

His early childhood was spent in Charles County where he attended public schools at Indian Head, Maryland. Gardnell soon became a star player in basketball during his school years. On September 20, 1967, after high school, he joined the United States Army. Shortly thereafter he met the love of his life, Carrie Belle Wilson, whom he married on December 20, 1969. To this union Gardnell Ellis Myers, Jr. was born.

Gardnell worked for the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC; where he held several positions and always excelled in his field. A dedicated civil service employee, his tenure with the Department of Labor lasted for over 34 years. While working he met many people and was a friend to many; always encouraging them along life's way. He began working in the Labor Department's mail room and progressed to driving Assistant Secretaries of the Labor Department and many dignitaries to the White House, Embassies and high profile meetings. He also owned and operated his own limousine service. His last position was in building management where he was tasked to resolve a plethora of problems and issues.

Gardnell was called into ministry early in life and served faithfully in service to the Lord winning souls for the Kingdom of God. One of his hobbies was traveling or RV'ing and bargain hunting at flea markets nationwide. He enjoyed nature and working with his hands. He loved his family, enjoying many conversations and laughter with them. He was a servant who helped anyone at any time.

Gardnell is survived by his wife, Carrie Belle and son, Gardnell Ellis Myers, Jr.; sisters Shirley Thomas and Lillie Mae Browne (Paul); brothers Leon (Pearl), Lawrence (Barbara), Ronald (Darlene), Robert (Queen); brother-in-law Jerome, Sr. (Edith); sisters-in-law Edna Myers, Melissa Myers, Elaine Myers and Pastor Geraldine Wilson (Pastor Melvin Wilson); uncles Girard (Edith) and Oliver (Alice). He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends and co-workers.

Viewing, 9:00 a.m. until time of Service, 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 19, 2019 in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Interment, Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, Maryland 20623.