06/17/2026
Howard Ray Garrett, 79, was promoted to his heavenly home on June 11, 2026. Howard was born on December 17, 1946 to the late Minnion (L.D.) and Dortha Thompson Garrett in Shelby County, Texas. Howard grew up in Shelby County, Texas, in the close-knit community of Patroon.
Funeral service is at 12 noon on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Triumph the Church of Kingdom of God and Christ, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas 75935. Pastor Freddie Wilson sharing words of comfort. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm on Friday, June 19, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center and from 10am to 11:45am prior to the funeral service on Saturday at the Church.
At an early age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at East Liberty Baptist Church. Howard graduated from East Liberty High School and, shortly after graduation, was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country.
After his military service, Howard began working at E. L. Bruce Hardware and Rogers Upholstery Shop alongside his beloved Aunt Ozell. Through their shared dedication, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit, Howard and Aunt Ozell decided to venture out on their own and established an upholstery shop in Patroon, Texas.
Together, they worked side by side for more than 20 years, building a successful business and earning the respect and trust of their community through their craftsmanship and commitment to excellence.
While working at E.L. Bruce Hardware, Howard met the love of his life, Mary Lee Garrett. Their relationship blossomed over nearly ten years of dating before they were united in marriage on January 10, 1979. Howard later began working for Tyson Foods Hatchery, where he became known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and dedication. He remained a faithful and committed employee for over 37 years until his passing, earning the respect and admiration of his coworkers and those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Howard was preceded in death by both of his parents; one brother, Minnion Garrett Jr.; sisters, Dorothy Jean Garrett, Clementine Garrett Lathan, Linda Garrett McCoy; and sons-in-law, Gustarvus Netherly and Rev Barry Miller.
Howard is survived by:
Loving wife, Mary Lee Garrett
Bonus Daughters:
Sheretta Netherly of Center
Sherry Garrett-Miller of Richmond, TX
Grandchildren:
Orlandus Garrett (Angel) of Round Rock, TX
McClendon Harrison, II of Richmond
Cameron Lathan of Houston
Sister, Wonda Faye Miller of Lakeland, TN
Adopted Sister, Mary Katherine Thompson of Houston
Very Special and only Aunt, Ozell Garrett of Shelbyville
Nieces:
Chastity C. Lathan-Melendez of Benton, LA
Michelle Hubbard and Roslyn Land of Center
Mary Lea Garrett of San Augustine
Nephews:
Tony Garrett of Houston
Demetris Mosley of Timpson
Arthur McCoy of Lufkin
Garrick McCoy of Lufkin
Reggie Lathan of Honolulu, HI
As well as a host of great grandchildren, cousins, and extended family
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
