Francis X. "Sonny" Gardner, 70, of 54 Angell Brook Dr., died peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, February 23, 2008.

   He leaves his wife of 43 years, Joyce A. (Birtz) Gardner; two sons, Mark F. Gardner and his wife Karen and Robert F. Gardner and his wife Becky, all of Jefferson; a sister, Ann Mallette of Spencer; five grandchildren, Paige, Jack, Andrew, Emily and Lauren; nephews and nieces. A sister, Joan Savage predeceased him. He was born in Worcester the son of Lester C. and Mildred M. (Mitchell) Gardner and lived 37 years in Holden before moving to West Boylston in 2006.

   Francis graduated from Saint John's High School in 1955, Clark University and earned his M.Ed. from Assumption College. He was a Professor of Psychology at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester where he taught for 41 years. He was a member of St. George's Church in Worcester. He enjoyed spending time on Cape Cod fishing and with his family and many friends. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

   Francis' family would like to thank Dr. Richard Horner and the caring staff at the Levine Cancer Center in Worcester for their compassion and assistance over the past year.

   Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26, in the Miles Funeral home, 1158 Main St., Holden. The funeral for Francis will be held on Wednesday, February 27, from the funeral home with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. George's Church, 38 Brattle St., Worcester. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Memorial donations may be made to the UMass Memorial Home Health and Hospice, 650 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605.