Michael Francis Garrity

Michael was born December 16, 1938 in Brattleboro, Vermont to Simon Francis and Dorothy Elizabeth (Brown) Garrity. Michael spent his youth in Vermont until joining the United States Army in 1958.

He retired after 22 years of service from the US Army as a Sergeant First Class. Michael served proudly and volunteered for two tours during the Vietnam War. Among his medals he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal w/V Device, Good Conduct Medal Clasp, Silver 1 Loop, Army Commendation Medal w/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star Medal.

One of his treasured things to do was visit the VFW in Lampasas and any VFW in the area. He once took a trip to Vermont and went around visiting all the VFWs he could, taking photos of each one. Michael was well loved as “Happy Friday” at the VFW and often told the patrons that everybody needs an Uncle Mike.

In 1974, Michael and the love of his life Sheryal Lynette Allen joined their two families in marriage. They were happily married for 41 years.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, sister Patricia and the light of his life Sheryal Lynette.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Joan Marie Garrity and wife Tammy, Lesa Scott and husband David, Mary Glover and husband Bob, Darla Buntin and husband Bobby.

Papa will also be missed by his grandchildren Shellie Ward, Melissa Gans, Katie Tucker, Tiffany Prevost, Zachary Buntin, Fred Prevost, Colton Buntin , Samuel Prevost, Larron Scott and 16 Great Grandchildren.

A visitation will be held Friday, August 30, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 South Fort Hood Road, Killeen, TX 76542. Funeral service is Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 9:30 AM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home. Interment with full military honors will be at noon Saturday in the Pilgrim's Rest Cemetery on Hwy 281 just South of Evant, Texas.