The family of Antwan Elias Garnem of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, is saddened to announce his passing on July 20, 2022, at the age of 83. He was preceded in death by his parents Elias and Josephine Garnem and his brothers Joseph and Raymond Garnem. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Zmorrod “Mora” Garnem; his daughters Theresa Garnem, Lilian Anthony (Emil), and Jacqueline Semaan (Rami); his grandchildren Joseph Anthony (Alison), Jon-Pierre Anthony (Cathryn), Miriam Bolus (Matthew), Maurice Semaan, and Mireille Semaan, his great grandchild Emilia Bolus, Sister-in-law Sonia Garmen, nieces Claudette Aboujaoude, Rania Henry and many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and extended family.
Antwan is of Lebanese decent and immigrated to the United States in 1972 to seek the American Dream. He and his brothers quickly made Birmingham their home and planted roots for their extended family to follow. He was known for his family-run restaurant, Antoine’s, founded in 1984 in Southside on 7th Avenue South and relocated to its final location in Cahaba Heights. Known for his hospitable spirit, he treated his customers at the restaurant as his family. On many occasions, he would temporarily close the restaurant to host his entire extended family to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and special events. After closing the restaurant, he still hosted celebrations at his home in Vestavia.
Antwan wore many hats in his life: Husband, Father, Jido (Grandfather), Uncle, Chef, Gardener, Designated Family Food Deliverer, Chauffer to Mora, and avid Alabama Football Fan (ROLL TIDE!). He valued his Maronite Faith as a member of Saint Elias Maronite Catholic Church, and it is fitting he passed on July 20th – the Feast Day of Saint Elias. His family is grateful for the beautiful legacy he leaves behind but will miss him dearly. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.
The funeral arrangement shall be Monday, July 25, 2022, at Saint Elias Maronite Catholic Church at 836 8th Street South Birmingham, AL 35205. There will be a visitation at 9:30am and a Funeral Liturgy Mass at 10:30am followed by a Burial Service at Elmwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, family is requesting donations to Saint Elias Maronite Catholic Church.
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