Celebrating the life of Josiah Jayden Gardner

Sunrise Monday March 10, 2008 – Sunset October 5, 2025

Josiah Jayden Gardner was born March 10, 2008, to Quennell and Aiesha Gardner. From a young age, Josiah showed a deep love for learning, a kind heart, and a magnetic personality that made everyone around him smile.

He began his education at Richmond Heights Elementary School, where he consistently earned straight A’s and graduated at the top of his class. He went on to attend Willard E. Prep Junior High School, where he made the honor roll and was voted “Best Dressed”  at his 8th-grade prom. Josiah later attended New Tech West High School while proudly playing varsity basketball for Max Hayes High School and competing in cross country. Always determined and goal-oriented, he earned all of his 12th-grade credits before even beginning his senior year and was actively pursuing college credits through the robotics program at Cuyahoga Community College.

Josiah’s journey with Christ began at the age of six when he was baptized at his home church, Cuyahoga Faith Center (CFC). He was an active member of the youth department, where he regularly participated in service by reading scriptures or opening in prayer every second Sunday.

A natural worker and leader, Josiah began working at the age of 14 with Youth Opportunities Unlimited as a pool attendant. He later worked at Jersey Mike’s, where he became known for crafting his own signature sandwiches. Most recently, he worked at Popeyes Chicken alongside his big brother Jordan and close high school friends. Though he often joked about not liking to work, he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

Josiah’s passions were vast-he enjoyed video games, creating content, music, basketball, and making people laugh. His sense of humor, charisma, and love for life were contagious. He loved making money and had big dreams, including attending prom and graduating with the Class of 2026.

On the morning of October 5, 2025, Josiah completed his morning chores-cutting the grass and taking out the trash-before going to play basketball with his close friends. Tragically, he did not return home.

Josiah leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving parents, Quennell and Aiesha Gardner; his brothers Jordan Elason-Gardner and Quennell Gardner Jr.; his grandparents Major Elason (Luci), Gennell Hemphill-Moore (Ralph); and great-grandmother Theresa Bishop. He was preceded in death by his grandmother Mary Gardner and great grandmother Mattie Martin. He is also survived by uncles Darrell Gardner, Charles Hemphill, and Robert Williams; great-uncles Ronald Bishop and Joseph Strawther; aunts Theresa Robinson (Rashawn), Arieal Browner (DeVante), Toni Adeyosoye (Solomon), Jhonae’ Elason; great-aunt Edith Strawther; and a host of cousins, extended family, and cherished friends.

Josiah will be remembered for his bright smile, sharp mind, deep faith, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. Though his life was brief, his impact was profound. His legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.