Edward Paul "Ed" Garrett

He was born in Tulsa, OK on August 29, 1937, where he spent his formative years. Ed was an outstanding trumpet player, performing in dance bands during his high school and college years, as well as inspiring many fellow congregants at the many churches he attended with worshipful music emanating from his horn. Shortly after graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering from Rice University in Houston, Ed married the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” Trower Garrett on June 11, 1960, and began a 35-year career with IBM (“I’ve Been Moved”) serving in multiple locations from Kentucky to Connecticut, Oklahoma and Kansas, to St. Louis, MO, and finally settling in Raleigh, NC in 1984.

Following his retirement from IBM, Ed provided consulting and computer software services for Royal Home Fashions and SAS Institute. Through the years, he and Pat exhibited exemplary hospitality, frequently opening their home for an evening, or months at a time to individuals and even whole families in need of food, shelter, and encouragement. Ed consistently extended the love of Christ to other people in need, exemplifying servant leadership. He never sought the spotlight, but humbly served others throughout his life. Perhaps most notable among these was Ed’s unwavering service to his family, especially to Pat, to whom he was exceptionally devoted. Family, friends, and strangers could always depend on Ed for help in time of need.

Ed is preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Garrett, and his sister-in-law, Karen Sue Dolman.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Pat; his daughter, Susan George (Norman); sons, Steve Garrett (Carolina), and Chris Garrett (Jenny); 13 grandchildren; one great grandson; and his brother-in-law, Steve Trower.

He leaves to his family a legacy of faith, constancy, and love, and among his friends a model of Christian service that all who had the privilege to know him are inspired to emulate.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 11th, with reception to follow at Church of the Apostles, 333 Church at N. Hills St. in Raleigh, NC.

In lieu of flowers, his family request contributions be made to Converting Hearts Ministries (www.convertinghearts.org) or Neighbor Health (neighborhealthcenter.org).

Arrangements provided by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.