David Henry Garris

He was born in Athens Alabama on December 7th 1929 to a working family and was one of seven children.

David Garris joined the Marine Corps in 1948 and immediately excelled as a rifleman and quickly earned the designation of sharpshooter. Soon after joining the Marines he was sent off to serve in the North Korean war as a member of the First Marine division. Mr. Garris was one of the famous “Frozen Chosin” and fought at the Battle of Chosin Resevoir in North Korea against Chinese forces for 17 days.

After serving his country for four years in the Marine Corps Mr. Garris was honorably discharged and soon returned to the U.S. to begin his career as a successful businessman. His strong work ethic and business acumen (which he attributed to his time served in the Marines) would lead him to Wilmington NC.

In the late 1960’s with an eye towards the future Mr. Garris opened one of the first Toyota dealerships in North Carolina called American Imports. On the heels of success Mr. Garris began to import other iconic brands from around the world such as Triumph, Subaru and Fiat. His automotive success allowed him to expand into other areas of business such as real estate and new product innovation and he was the definition of the American entrepreneur.

The Star News named Mr. Garris on its “who’s who list” in 1973.

The success of Mr. Garris in the community and his service to his country gained him a friend in future U.S. president Ronald Reagan during his 1979 campaign. As a campaign supporter and notable businessman Mr. Garris was asked to dine with Reagan and express his thoughts on local issues.

After his retirement from automotive and his other business ventures, Mr. Garris remained active in real estate until his death. This proud marine, father and businessman is survived by his three children, Gina Garris Darden and Angie Garris Sanderson of Wilmington NC, and David Alexander Garris of Ridgewood NJ, his brothers Henry Garris of Daytona Beach FL, Gilbert Garris of Columbus OH and his sisters Jeanette Rideneour, Gayle Ison of London Ohio and Betty Johnson of Homestead Fl. He is preceded by his mother Nettie Garris, father Alvin Garris and sister Rebecca Garris.

A wake will be held at Coble Ward-Smith Funeral Home on Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. A formal military service and funeral will be held at Oleander Memorial Gardens on Friday, August 16th. Condolences and flowers can be offered through Coble Ward-Smith Funeral home or Star News online. Donations can be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice.

The staff of Coble Ward-Smith is honored to serve the family of David Henry Garris.