John Garbarino

NEW BERN| John Garbarino, also known as “Red” and “Johnny,” died peacefully at the age of 66 on the evening of September 30th, 2024 surrounded by his family and friends. He fought a long 8 year battle with lung cancer and was provided excellent medical care by many great physicians throughout Eastern North Carolina. John fought cancer with everything he had and then some. Never losing hope and wanted nothing more than to prolong his life for more time with his family, friends and grandson on the way.

John was born in Livonia, Michigan on December 9th, 1957. He was the third oldest of 7 children born to Irvin John Garbarino and Catherine McAleer Garbarino. After high school he worked for General Motors and then moved on to the commercial glass industry which led him down south to Georgia and eventually to Chapel Hill. There he met the love of his life, Martha Ward Garbarino. The only moment more special than their wedding was the birth of their son, Sean. They settled in New Bern, NC, Martha’s hometown. After successfully operating a cellphone dealership, they next opened a local restaurant called Marina Sweets Café and Deli which later was featured in the Southern Living magazine. The article was titled “Free Ice Cream and Coffee, ask for John!” This led them to realize that the business may not be profitable since John gave away more ice cream and coffee than he sold. They were embraced by the community and became a regular hangout for many of the locals.

John continued his love of giving and helping others, which led to him acquiring an abundance of friends. He is survived by his adoring family: his wife Martha; son Sean and daughter in law Kristen with soon to be grandson Carter; his sisters Kathy, Mary (Richard), and Kim (Mark); his brothers Tim (Trisha) and Joey along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Irvin and Catherine Garbarino and his older brother Gary (surviving spouse Sandi).

To the best Husband, Father, Brother, Grandpa and Friend. We love you now and forever.

Services will be held at Cotten Funeral Home at 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, followed by a graveside service at New Bern Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, John requested donations to St. Jude’s Children's Hospital.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of John Garbarino.