Kenneth Ray Garrett

Kenneth, affectionately known as Paw Paw to everyone, was born March 27, 1941 to Della and H.M. Garrett in Etowah County , Alabama. He had a full childhood of rambunctiousness and mischief with his sibling group of 8: Eloise, Juanita, William, Virginia, Paul, Talmadge, Barbara and Shirley. His love and devotion to his brothers and sisters carried out until his last days. Some of his favorite stories to tell his grandchildren are those from his childhood and youth with his many brothers and sisters.

Kenneth graduated from Emma Sansom High School and Gadsden State Community College He later served 4 years in the Air Force being stationed in California and Alaska.

He later married Delores “Gail” Newkirk on November 2, 1964. They built a beautiful life together raising their two children and later grandchildren. Kenneth’s antics and silliness that he demonstrated in his childhood was seen in his interactions with his grandchildren. He was one to be zealous and enthusiastic in play with each of them.

Ken was a devoted and loyal family man, so much so that he retired to assist in being a caregiver for Mimi, his mother-in-law, and help with the daily watching of grandchildren. His grandchildren were one of his greatest treasures in life, only second to his wife, Gail.

He is preceded in death by his parents Della and H.M Garrett; siblings Eloise, Juanita, William, Paul, Talmadge and Barbara ; and his special mother-in-law that he loved dearly, Mildred “Mimi” Newkirk. As a family, we are comforted by the thoughts of him being hand in hand with Mimi as they watch over us all.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Gail of 62 years, to whom he has cherished and provided for every day. One could see his devotion to Gail anytime they were together or just when he spoke of her. His steadfast love was never a question to anyone. They both provided a beautiful example of marriage and love.

He leaves his children; Pat (Robin) Garrett and Kris Garrett. Kenneth’s loved grandchildren: Delanie (Tim) Tillman, Jon Tyler (Brooke) Garrett, Nathan Garrett, Savannah Garrett, Dalton Martin, Ethan Martin, Terri (Jerry) Fish, and Ashley Fish.

Kenneth is survived by his sister’s Shirley (James) Martin and Virginia Dempsey.

Pallbearers are Jon Tyler and Nathan Garrett, Dalton and Ethan Martin, Tim Tillman and Eddie Barnes.

Sometimes angels enter your lives, even briefly, and that was a Mrs. Gayle Stevens, RN of Centerwell HHC, who provided so much love and comfort in his last day and for her we are grateful. In addition, the family would like to extend their thankfulness to the promptness of Southside Fire and Amed especially Ryan McGlaughn, Chris McCarver, Jackson Thrasher, Brian Osborn and Gage Fuhrman. Special thanks to Riverview Emergency Department for their empathy during our loss.

The family asks you to join us on August 28, 2025, as we celebrate the life of Ken at

Morgan Funeral Home, in Attalla, with visitation starting at 11 am and service at 12 pm.

The family has asked that any flower donations made be with potted plants that their life may be enjoyed in months and years ahead.