Edward Alfredo Garza

Edward is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Garza; his son Chris, his daughters Courtney and Carrie; Son in law Basil and Jamey; 5 grandchildren; Sydney, Tyler, Caraline, Jameson and Georgie; 7 siblings; Sister Terry, Brothers Trini, Jim, Thomas, Tim, Michael and Patrick.

He was predeceased by his parents, Oscar Trinidad Garza, and Melina Joan Rogero and his beloved grandson, Elijah Jameson Stowell.

Edward was born in Jacksonville, FL on June 22nd, 1948. He also spent a few years of his life in Eagle Pass, TX. He attended Christ the King and graduated from Terry Parker High School in 1966.

Ed served bravely in the Vietnam War as a Sergeant in the Army and was highly decorated earning a Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Army Commendation medal in addition to National Defense Service medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal as well as earning designation of Expert Rifleman. Ed served in a hot zone near the Vietnam – Cambodian border at the combat base in Tay Ninh.

Upon returning from Vietnam, he met the love of his life Kathy. Kathy and Ed were married January 26th, 1974 at Christ the King Church and shortly after started their family of 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Ed was a family man, a teacher, and a man of strong faith, honor and principles. He was extremely generous supporting numerous charities, as well as those around him that needed him most. He opened his home to many friends and family in need. He coached baseball at a very young age and especially loved coaching his brothers. Ed had numerous passions including fishing, boating, and sports. He loved to spoil his grandchildren with yummy treats from donuts to candy. The man never passed up a block of cheese in his life. Most of all he was a family man, who protected and loved his family to the fullest. A man of faith who believed that a home was more than just a roof over people’s heads, it was a temple, and place to model the way and show others how to live life. His love of his family and friends is unparalleled. Ed Garza will forever be missed and remembered.

His heart is what ailed him throughout most of his life, yet it is his heart that people will remember him for most. A big heart for family, a big heart for his friends, a big heart for a stranger and big heart for anyone in need.

A committal will take place at Jacksonville National Cemetery on Friday, March 24th at 10am; followed by memorial service which will take place at 12:30pm at Grace Life Church at 2960 Plummer Cove Road in Jacksonville, FL 32223.

Flowers can be sent to Hardage-Gideon’s Funeral Home at 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223.

Live Streaming is available on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/thegracelifejax

Please join us remembering and celebrating the life of Ed Garza.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgmandarin.com for the Garza family.