Jack Burns Garrett, 98, of Columbia, KY passed away Saturday, December 21, 2024 at his home. He was born August 5, 1926 in Corbin, KY to his parents John and Rose Creech Garrett.
Jack was a 1958 graduate of Cumberland College and a 1960 graduate of Eastern Kentucky State College (EKU). He was a retired physical education teacher and state dairy inspector. After his retirement, he owned and operated Garrett’s Bass Camp on Dale Hollow Lake where he enjoyed being a fishing guide.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Eunice Cox, Dixie Rich, and Glenn Garrett. He was married to his wife, Jimmie Rose Elliott Garrett for 66 years until her death in August, 2023.
SURVIVORS:
2 children: John Patrick (Jean) Garrett and Jacqueline Rose (Steve) Burton
Grandchildren: Elizabeth Rose (Joey) White & their children Carter & Makayla Rose, Stacey Ward & daughter Raven Davis, and Sarah (Daniel) Young & their children Eliza & Elam
His good friends: Bob Rice, Bobby Neal, Bonnie Cowan, and Harve Turner
His dog: Happy
Many nieces, nephews, cousins & other family members
Jack was baptized at First Baptist Church in Corbin at a young age and rededicated his life to Christ in June of this year. He was a member of Trinity Church. He enjoyed life and entertained those around him with his humor and stories. Jack was considered “one of the finest athletes from Corbin.” He lettered in basketball, football and baseball. He was an all-state and all-american basketball player and played semi-pro basketball and baseball for the Oak Ridge Elks, House of David, and Whiskered Wizards teams. His House of David basketball team toured with the Harlem Globetrotters. Besides sports, Jack loved to fish for smallmouth bass, play checkers, camp and spent many winters in Florida. He enjoyed shopping for what he called a “good deal.” If you ever had the chance to meet him you would not forget it.
Jack chose cremation and a service will be held at a later date on Green River Lake.
Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
