James Henry Garrison

James H. Garrison was born in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Douglas Garrison and Willia Mae (Bedingfield) Owens on October 11, 1942. James made his transition on December 6, 2024.

James spent his formative years in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from East High School. After high school, he joined the United States Army where he received commendations as a sharpshooter and marksman. He achieved the rank of First Gunner and received an honorable discharge in June, 1963. He told many stories about places he was stationed at Japan, Korea, and Fort Hood, Texas.

Following his Army service, James United in matrimony with Mary Smith. He was an only child, so with marrying Mary he inherited nine sisters, four brothers, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. This union was blessed with longevity for a total of 59 years.

Over a span of approximately 49 years, James was employed by Sherwin-Williams and Ferro Chemical. Upon retirement in 2006, he and Mary returned to Alabama where they reconnected with many relatives from both sides of their families. He also formed special relationships with Mary’s Burrell Slater Class of 1962. He also became a member of First Missionary Baptist Church in Sheffield, Alabama where he served on the Transportation Ministry.

James had many hobbies. He especially enjoyed cooking, gardening, and reading. James loved cooking on his grills, yes, grills. Each grill did something special. James spared no expense in getting just the perfect grill. He couldn’t wait for an opportunity to ride his lawn mower to cut grass, and plant his tomatoes, and care for his fruit trees.

James was an avid sports enthusiast. James knew stats of many players and teams. He especially loved The Ohio State and Pittsburgh Steelers football teams. He would never miss an opportunity to have spirited debates with family and friends. He even coached a women’s softball team in Cleveland, Ohio. James was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Garrison and Willia Mae Owens, and grandparents, Henry and Reslean McDade.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving wife, Mary Garrison; daughters, Deborah (Linus) Anderson, Pearland, Texas, and Lenore Kyle, Richmond, Texas; and a host of beloved brother and sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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