Marlow Fontez Gardner was born on May 11, 1970 in East St. Louis, IL to Rose M. Gardner and Gerald Little. Marlow was the oldest of three children. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Gardner He attended East St. Louis School District #189, throughout his educational endeavor. Marlow was raised in the loving home of his grandparents, Frank Spraggins and Maggie Gardner, where he was raised alongside his aunts and uncles. Marlow was no stranger to hard work, his grandfather taught him everything he knew about being an independent person and entrepreneur. In addition to working his full time employment with AmeriCold Logistics and the steel factory, Marlow was an Uber driver, created a food truck service, as well as "meals on wheels."

He confessed a hope in Christ in 1999 at the Power of Change Ministries in St. Louis, MO, where he was baptized. He would later attend God's Revealing Tabernacle under the leadership of the late Pastor Nathaniel Cole, where he served in the coir alongside his Aunt Alice Irvin. Marlow fought a "good fight."

Marlow was united in Holy Matrimony to Tracy Harris on February 14, 1999 and to this union two children were born.

Marlow was affectionately known by his family and childhood friends for his infectious smile and bubbly personality that would light up any room. He could be found assisting all those in need for rehabbing and renovating their homes and businesses. He often did mercy work for the elderly. Marlow was very artistic and self-taught. Marlow loved his family, especially his sons. He always looked up to his uncle Felix, uncle Derek, aunt Alice, and aunt Shirley, whom will miss him dearly.

MG as he was called in the music industry, began a music career in 1990 at the age of 20 and traveled to Miami, FL along with his friends Moe (Anthony Mosby), Lance and Jay. The group was called "The Boys From Illinois". They performed on many stages and their music could be heard on the airways as they produced CD'S and videos and were very popular during that time. Marlow was very instrumental in developing music beats and lyrics for the group. This was a rarity for many back in the day. Their beats can still be heard through other artists to this very day.

Marlow departed this life on Friday, August 19, 2022 . Though he many be absent from the body, he is forever with us in spirit and though God's grace. He leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife, Tracy Harris (Gardner), sons, Evan Le'ron Watson of Honolulu, Hawaii, Dwayne Tre'von Watson of Pontoon Beach, IL., Marlow F. Gardner Jr. (Jacqueline) of Collinsville, IL Jeremiah Gardner of Granite City, IL., , one grandchild, little Ms. Marlee Gardner, sisters, Jamisa Tidwell of University City, MO., Antoinette Gardner of East St. Louis, IL., and a host of other relatives and friends.