William Cecil Gardner was born on February 13, 1937 to the late Mr. James P. Gardner and Mrs. Willie B. McNutt Gardner in Guntown, MS. He was the third of nine children.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, James E. Gardner, L.C. Gardner, Lawrence F. Gardner and Quitman Gardner.

In addition to that union four daughters were added, Louise Riddlespergen, and Jeanette Clemons, both of Kansas City, MO, M. Earline Stewart (Bishop Paul A. G. Stewart, Sr.) of Olive Branch, MS and Willie D. Jones of Guntown, MS.

William C. Gardner joined Trinity Christian Methodist Episcopal Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. J.O. Lowe. He also attended J.O. Lowe High School.