Ernest "Gerry" Gerald Garrick

Ernest Gerald “Gerry” Garrick was born on March 26, 1942 in Montgomery, Alabama to Ernest Reginald and Kathleen Collier Garrick. Gerry’s childhood was filled with joyful memories, such as fishing trips with his father, “Reg” and spending time with his large extended family. He cherished family gatherings at the ancestral home in Lower Peachtree, Alabama where he enjoyed exploring the outdoors as well as fishing in Fairhope, Alabama.

Gerry graduated from Sidney Lanier High School and went on to study at the University of Alabama, where he was a member of the renowned Million Dollar Band. He transferred to Huntingdon College in Montgomery with his college sweetheart, Sue Russell, and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics. During his time at Huntingdon, he developed a love for German language and culture. After he graduated from Huntingdon, he earned a Master's Degree in Mathematics from Samford University. In the 1990s, he continued his education at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, pursuing a doctoral studies in Early Childhood Education. Throughout his life, Gerry demonstrated a dedication to lifelong learning.

Gerry married Sue Russell on September 1, 1963 and together they had two daughters, Colleen Garrick-Bisacca (Paul) and Wendy Hesse (Mark). He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He deeply cherished his four grandchildren: Emma and Ethan Hesse, and Caroline and Christopher Walker. Gerry maintained close bonds with his family including his younger brother, Ken Garrick (and family) as well as his brother-in-law Jim Russell (and family). He loved his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

For over 26 years, Gerry worked for BellSouth in Birmingham, Alabama. He was a Director in Information Systems and primarily worked with Financial Applications. During his time at BellSouth, he formed lifelong friendships with colleagues that he treasured throughout his life.

Gerry's passion for the outdoors extended to his family. He planned countless road trips across the United States in their custom blue van, visiting national parks, historical landmarks, and monuments. The Rocky Mountains held a special place in his heart. Later in life, he and Sue moved to Colorado to be closer to family and enjoy the mountains. Gerry and Sue delighted in taking their grandchildren on adventures, including trips to Florida's beaches and Presidential libraries.

Gerry was deeply committed to community service. He volunteered with numerous organizations, including First United Methodist Church in Birmingham where he helped with Sunday radio broadcasts, transported senior members, and assisted with the annual church barbecue. He served as PTO President at Pelham High School in Pelham, Alabama. A dedicated Huntingdon College alumnus, Gerry participated in fundraising efforts, served on the alumni board, championed job placement for graduates and supported various college initiatives. He also volunteered with the BellSouth Pioneers. Gerry was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Birmingham, serving on several committees over the years.

A private family graveside service will be held in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, on 10/23/24.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial gifts to the Garrick Family Scholarship at Huntingdon College.

• Please send donations by mail to "Garrick Family Scholarship" at Huntingdon College, 1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106.

• Donations can also be made online at https://www.huntingdon.edu/alumni-friends/giving-to-huntingdon/give-now/ Please indicate "Garrick Family Scholarship" in the comments section to designate where your gift should be directed.