Paul Kennie Eli Garner

Born in Wilmington, NC, on May 31, 1951, Kennie was the second son of Eddie Vick and Vertle Mae Garner. He attended New Hanover High School, then was in the first graduating class of Hoggard High School. He was an outstanding student, a leader in the band programs and a member of the National Honor Society.

He received his B.A. in Music Education from UNC-Wilmington and taught instrumental music in Onslow and Wake County Schools. He continued his education at North Carolina Central University, receiving his M.A. in Library Science and, later, at North Carolina State University, earning M.A.'s in Educational Technology and Supervision. He has been employed with the Brunswick County Schools since 1994, serving at Union Elementary, Shallotte Middle School and Belville Elementary School.

Kennie's passions included playing percussion in the North Myrtle Beach Community Band and playing tuba in the Tuba Christmases held in North and South Carolina. Being librarian for Belville Elementary School for the past eight years brought a great deal of joy to his life.

Kennie is survived by his wife, Alice Lee, his son, Christopher, his daughter, Erin Lee Johnson, and his granddaughter, Iris Lee Johnson.

Visitation is Friday, January 3, 2014 from 6 to 8pm at Coble Ward-Smith, Oleander Chapel. A funeral service is Saturday, January 4, 2014 at 2pm at Coble Ward-Smith, Oleander Chapel. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

The staff of Coble Ward-Smith is honored to serve the family of Paul Kennie Eli Garner.