James R. Garrett's Obituary
James R. "Jim" Garrett
Jim Garrett, 77, of Brandon, MS, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2009, after a lengthy illness. He was born November 8, 1931, to Helen and Ted Garrett in Carthage, Missouri. He was a graduate of the University of Missouri where he received an accounting degree. Jim served in the United States Army for six years and was a veteran of the Korean War. Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn Henson Garrett; sons, James Henson Garrett and Edward Henson Garrett all of Brandon, MS; daughter, Susan Garrett Morris of Keller, Texas and her husband, Bruce, granddaughter, Margaret Morris Henderson and her husband, Scott and great grandson, Garrett Scott Henderson, all of Keller, Texas. Jim started his career with Peat, Marwick, Mitchell and Company in 1958, and in 1960 entered the motel business with his father-in-law, Efton Henson. They were based in Longview, Texas and owned motels throughout the state. His sharp mind, attention to detail, and business saviness allowed Jim to expand his motel business, even after the death of his beloved partner. Jim eventually owned motels in Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Jim owned the Best Western Motel in Forest, Mississippi, for 26 years and retired in 2006. Jim enjoyed his family, golf, and was an avid supporter of the University of Missouri. He was dedicated to his children, grandchild, and great-grandson. Even during his illness, Jim loved life to the fullest and acted as the rock of his family. Never one to put himself first, his priority was always to his loved ones. His laugh, the way he said, "yes sir", and most importantly, the kindness he showed to all creatures of the earth, are passionately missed. Services will be held Wednesday, March 25, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. at Ott & Lee Funeral Home Chapel in Forest, Mississippi. Graveside services with military honors will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 27, at Rosewood Park in Longview, Texas. The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 26 at Rader Funeral Home.
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