Thomas Allen Gard

 Thomas Allen Gard, known as “Tom” and “Tommy,” 76, of Hertford, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, June 26, 2024.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. George "Oliver" and Corona Jordan Gard, and by a brother, Rev. Lloyd "Douglas" Gard.

 Surviving is his wife of 55 years, Kathryn Moore Gard.; his daughter, Amanda Gard Wilkins (Wayne) and granddaughter, Michelle Nicole Wilkins, all of Winston-Salem, NC; and his sister, Linda Gard Love (Louie) of Midlothian, VA. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law, a sister-in-law, many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins and friends.

 He graduated from Kenbridge High School in 1965 as Valedictorian. He completed his Bachelors of Science in Mathematics & Education at Lynchburg College in 1969 and his Masters of Accountancy from Virginia Tech in 1975.

 He held the following certifications and licensures: Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner and Financial Securities Licenses in numerous states.

 Prior to completing his Masters Degree, he taught middle school and high school mathematics. While attending Virginia Tech, he also taught undergraduate accounting courses as a Graduate Research & Teaching Assistant and was awarded the University's Excellence in Teaching. After completing his Masters Degree, he accepted a Senior Accountant role with Deloitte Haskins & Sells in Greensboro, NC. In 1979, he accepted a Director of Internal Audit role with Hoechst Celanese in Charlotte, NC. While with Hoechst Celanese, he was transferred to New York, NY and was promoted to Vice President of Finance & Administration. After leaving Hoechst Celanese in 1992, he became the Director of Small Business at Martin Community College in Williamston, NC. He retired as a Financial Planner while working for Edward Jones in Edenton, NC.

 While able, he was an active member of Hertford United Methodist Church in Hertford, NC. He served as the Lay Leader and was a Sunday School Teacher. He also sang in the choir and held numerous volunteer positions at both the local and district levels.

 A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, July 5, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Hertford United Methodist Church in Hertford, NC conducted by Rev. Tom Hallberg. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. A graveside service will be held Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. at New Hope Christian Church Cemetery, located in Danieltown, Virginia conducted by Rev. Ronnie West (GPS/Address: 742 New Hope Road, Alberta, VA 23821).

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Hertford United Methodist Church, 200 Dobbs St., Hertford, NC 27944; Methodist Home for Children, 1041 Washington St., Raleigh, NC 27605; or The Open Door Food Pantry of Perquimans County, 293 Creek Dr., Hertford, NC 29744.

 Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements, and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.