Dr. Richard Stephen Gardner, O.D., 66, of Carlisle, passed away Monday, September 12, 2022 at his home.

Born February 25, 1956 in Shelbyville, Kentucky to the late Walter & Mary Elizabeth Beeler Gardner, he was a graduate of Union College in Barbourville and completed his doctorate at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Known as a kind and caring optometrist, he had worked at Walmart Vision Centers in both Paris and Cynthiana, as well as in his own private practice, Paris Vision.

Surviving are his son, Benjamin Gardner, of Lexington, and his sister, Jeanie, also of Lexington.

In accordance with his wishes, Stephen will be cremated. A private celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.