Francis McGarry

The life of Francis McGarry is best captured in the words of Maya Angelou who wrote: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

Francis was born on February 23, 1956, in Brooklyn, NY and died on November 30, 2024, in Houston, TX. Each day he thrived. He lived with passion, compassion, a LOT of humor, and style that only Francis could pull off. His ready smile, quick sense of humor, and zest for life were a blessing to so many.

Francis was raised in Charleston, South Carolina and those southern roots were ingrained in him. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Baptist College of Charleston.

He moved to Houston, TX where he met his wife, Lisa. They were married for 40 years. His first job in Houston was at Benchmark Computers. He then worked for 18 years at Hewlett-Packard where he made many lifelong friends. He also worked at TSA, Computex, and Calian. He formed close friendships at each place due to his outgoing personality and great sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Adele McGarry, brother Phillip Holbrook, and sister Kathleen McGarry.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Johnson, daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Gary Pearce, and daughter Janelle Hoyland. Francis was blessed by grandchildren Kelci Hoyland Zuniga and husband Luis Zuniga, Zoie Hoyland, Steven Hoyland “3”, Dominic Pearce, Gia Pearce, and Juliet Pearce.

Francis is also survived by his Nephew Sean McGarry and his great Nephew Michael McGarry.

Family was always an important part of Francis’ life. He loved the family gatherings. His style was expressed well in his 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme with its ragtop. He would fuss about how often it had to be worked on, but he would never dream of parting with it. It was a central part of his cherished Christmas decorations in his driveway. He enjoyed his Harley Davidson motorcycle and was always up for a ride, particularly if it ended in a bite to eat.

He is loved by many and will be celebrated in our shared memories. The Celebration of His life will be held on Wednesday, December 11 at 1:00 pm in the Hunters Creek Chapel at Earthman Funeral Directors, 8303 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX with a reception following.