David "Dave" Wilbert Garland

David Wilbert “Dave” Garland, 79, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020. After a lengthy struggle with multiple illnesses, he is now made whole again, going home to be with the Lord. Dave made an impact on so many through the example he set by persevering and always being more concerned with others than he was with himself.

Dave was born in Chattanooga, TN on March 26, 1941. He moved with his family to Henagar, AL, graduating from Sylvania High School in Henagar in 1959. He returned to Chattanooga, attending the University of Chattanooga (currently UTC) and playing football for the legendary A.C. “Scrappy” Moore. After a year of college, he began his 47 year career as an employee of Siskin Steel and Supply Company, Incorporated. He began at Siskin Steel delivering mail and retired as Executive Vice-President of Operations, working in a variety of roles over his lengthy tenure.

He was an accomplished football and basketball athlete at Sylvania High School, earning honors for football, including participation in an Alabama state-wide all-star football game.

Dave was of the Baptist Faith and previously was a member of Henagar Baptist Church, Bible Way Baptist Church in Rossville, GA, and South Seminole Baptist in East Ridge at various times.

His was a life of service to others, especially giving to his family, as there was nothing that he would not do for them. He spent so many hours supporting and coaching both sons in youth sports. He was very involved in East Ridge High School and Junior High Athletic Boosters in the 1980’s. He served the East Ridge community in a variety of ways, both officially and unofficially in his over 40 years living there.

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing tennis, playing basketball, playing softball, deer-hunting, fishing, off-roading in his Jeep, family vacations, and involvement in every interest that his sons had.

In his later years, he was a huge fan and season-ticket holder for UTC Mocs Basketball, and traveled often to watch Southern Conference and NCAA tournament games. Additionally, he was a regular at the Siskin Fitness Center following his retirement.

His favorite thing to do in the last decade or so was to watch and support his grandchildren’s interests, including all sports, school activities, recitals, and concerts; especially spending an inordinate amount of time at baseball games.

Likewise, he supported his adult children’s endeavors. Between his sons’ and grandson’s teams, he became an avid fan over the years, and was frequently seen cheering for the East Ridge Pioneers, Loftis Cougars, Soddy-Daisy Trojans, Baylor Red Raiders, and most recently, the East Hamilton Hurricanes. Additionally, he cheered for countless independent non-school teams that his family participated in.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert H. Garland and Alma S. Garland, both of Chattanooga.

He is survived by his sons, Steve (Kim) Garland of East Brainerd, and Brian (Courtney) Garland of Hixson; grandchildren Bradley Garland, Christin Garland, Noah Garland, and Crew Garland; his sister and brother-in-law June and Travis Cagle; his ex-wife of 38 years and mother of his sons, Peggy Sharpe; 13 nephews and nieces; several great nephews and nieces; and special friend, Pat Osborne. He meant so much to so many that he leaves behind, especially numerous close friends from Siskin Steel, Lesco Truck Leasing and Rental, and Lee-Smith Incorporated.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday July 14, and 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday July 15 at the East Chapel of the Chattanooga Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life Service for David will be at 3:00 on Wednesday July 15 at the East Chapel with Pastor Sterling Jetton and Chaplain Jay Fowler officiating.

We respectfully request that all current mandates set forth by Hamilton Co. Health Department be adhered to. This includes “social distancing and wearing masks at all times while on the premises.

If you are not comfortable attending the service you may join us live for the service at https://www.facebook.com/chattanoogaeastchapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in David’s name to Siskin Children’s Institute (1101 Carter Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402) or to Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation (1 Siskin Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37403).

Arrangements are under the care of Chattanooga Funeral Home Crematory and Florist East Chapel, 404 South Moore Rd. East Ridge, TN 37412.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com