Remembering Robert Gardner of Nacogdoches, TX: A Life of Dedication, Safety, and Service
NACOGDOCHES, TX — The community of Nacogdoches and the broader railroading family are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Robert Gardner, who tragically passed away on June 9, 2025, in a train-related accident. He was 43 years old.
Robert Gardner was more than just a railroad worker — he was a pillar of strength, integrity, and dedication within the Union Pacific family. Known for his unwavering commitment to safety and excellence, Gardner spent much of his career advocating for the well-being of his colleagues. His sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him.
Gardner’s legacy is deeply woven into the very fabric of his workplace. Colleagues recall how he was often the first to arrive and the last to leave, making sure every safety protocol was followed, every coworker was accounted for, and every task was done not just with efficiency but with heart. He was someone others could rely on — a mentor, a friend, and a fierce proponent of the values that keep rail workers safe every day.
“Robert believed in doing things the right way, every time,” said one of his longtime coworkers. “He looked out for all of us. He made us feel like family.”
Outside of work, Gardner was a devoted family man and an active member of the Nacogdoches community. His compassion extended beyond the railyard — volunteering his time at local events, lending a hand to neighbors in need, and sharing his time generously with friends and loved ones. He brought the same dependability and kindness to his personal life that he showed on the job.
Family and friends remember him as someone with a ready smile, a calm presence, and a heart full of care. Whether coaching a youth sports team, helping fix a neighbor’s fence, or hosting barbecues in his backyard, Gardner was always building bonds, always fostering a sense of community.
The tragic circumstances of his death have cast a spotlight on the risks faced daily by those who work in the railroad industry. Yet even in loss, Gardner’s legacy continues to inspire conversations about improving safety standards and looking out for one another on and off the job. His life is a solemn reminder of both the risks and the camaraderie inherent in the profession.
Robert Gardner’s passing is not just the loss of a worker — it is the loss of a leader, a friend, a husband, a father, and a beloved member of a tight-knit town. His memory will live on through the lives he touched, the safety culture he helped shape, and the family and friends who will continue to carry forward his values.
He is survived by his loving family and a community forever grateful for his example and presence.
In honor of his legacy, friends and fellow employees are organizing a safety awareness campaign and a memorial event to celebrate his life and contributions. Details will be shared with the community in the coming days.
Robert Gardner may be gone, but the mark he left — on the railroad, in Nacogdoches, and in the hearts of those who knew him — will endure.