Mr. Gerald Earl Baumgardner's Obituary
Funeral Service for Mr. Gerald Earl Baumgardner, 87, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Minister Brendan Chance will officiate. Burial will follow in the Alexander City Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 12:15 pm to 12:45 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Gerald Earl Baumgardner, a man whose passion for tennis and love for his family knew no bounds, passed away surrounded by his loved ones. Earl was a beacon of joy and determination in the lives of all who knew him. Born to the late Fitzgerald and Thelma Baumgardner, he learned the values of family and hard work from a young age. His sister, Phyllis Wroten, preceded him in death, leaving behind a legacy of love and memories.
Earl’s life was one marked by accomplishment and service. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Southern California on a tennis scholarship. His skill on the tennis court was undeniable, and at the age of eighteen, he was ranked number one in tennis in the nation. His prowess led to his selection for the U.S. Davis Cup Team, an honor that spoke volumes about his dedication to the sport.
Following his achievements as a player, Earl channeled his love for tennis into coaching, shaping the lives of countless young athletes. He was a professional tennis teacher in Dallas and later served as a coach at both Tennessee and Alabama, where his influence extended beyond the court, instilling values of sportsmanship and integrity in his students.
Beyond his professional life, Earl was a devoted father and a doting grandfather. He is survived by a loving family, including his sons, Ron (Renay) Baumgardner, Earl (Charla) Baumgardner, Russ (Laura) Baumgardner, and Danny Baumgardner; his daughter, Becky (Bobby) Cleveland; and his cherished grandchildren, Benjamin, Brock and Bradley Baumgardner, Philip and Charles Caswell, Eric (Lindsey) and Dylan (Zhenya) Baumgardner, Mindy (Chad) McWhirter, Savannah, Lexi, and Sophia Baumgardner; as well as his great-grandchildren, Patrick O'Brien, Harrison, and Heidi Baumgardner. Earl’s legacy continues to thrive through the lives of his family members, who remember him as a guiding force and a source of endless support.
Earl’s interests were as varied as they were engaging. He enjoyed playing golf and bowling, but tennis remained his first love. His passion for the game was infectious, and he mentored his children and grandchildren in tennis, sharing with them the joy and discipline the sport had brought to his own life. His commitment to family and tennis was a testament to his character, a blend of friendliness, intriguing stories, and a passionate heart.
A man of faith, Earl attended the Alexander City Church of Christ, where he enjoyed fellowshipping with other members. His presence was a comfort and inspiration to the congregation, and his contributions to the community were felt by all. Earl's friendly demeanor, interesting conversations, and passionate outlook on life made him a cherished member of his community and an unforgettable presence in the lives of those he touched.
Gerald Earl Baumgardner lived a life that was full and rich, marked by the love he gave and the love he received. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. As we say goodbye to Earl, we celebrate a life well-lived, a game well-played, and a man well-loved.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Enhabit Hospice for the wonderful care they provided for Earl.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Alexander City Church of Christ, 945 Tallapoosa Street, Alexander City, AL, 35010.
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