Mr. Gary Marvin Garner

Gary “Peas” Marvin Garner was born on September 29, 1954, in Hartford, Connecticut to Joseph Gladden and Lucile Brown. He graduated from Apopka Memorial High School in 1972. After high school, Gary earned his Associate of Arts degree from Valencia Community College in 1974. Shortly after completing his degree, Gary made the decision to enlist into the military in 1975 to serve his country. As a notable Marine, Gary became a skilled machine gunner technician which introduced him to the energy field in 1978. Gary was a dedicated employee of Florida Power & Light, Progress Energy, and Duke Energy. Throughout his 35 years of employment, he worked as a lineman and was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. His colleagues described him as “happy go lucky”. He was known to always have a smile on his face and a positive spirit. He retired from Duke Energy in 2014. As a father, Gary enjoyed the company of his daughters and grandchildren. He held a special bond with his sibling and extended family. He enjoyed watching television and especially watching University of Florida football. In the community, he was known as the man in the Florida Power truck. Many would see his truck parked outside of his grandmother’s restaurant, Garner Café or at his beloved Uncle William Gladden’s house. Gary had a tremendous love for his family and often generously gave his time and resources. In addition to being an influential father, he was also a believer of the Gospel. Gary served as a Trustee at Macedonia Independent Free Methodist Church, where he was a faithful member for over 60 years. Three months into his well-deserved retirement, Gary’s health began to decline due to a massive ischemic stroke in 2014. Throughout the many medical procedures, doctor appointments, and home care, his daughters and aunt remained by his side. While in the presence of his daughter, Jasmine, the Lord saw fit to grant Gary Marvin Garner a heavenly home on July 14, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Gladden and Lucile Brown, and his beloved grandmother Elizabeth “Liza” Garner. To remember and cherish his legacy: four children: Carmen Sanders, Shonta Garner, Jamika Garner, Jasmine Sanders; four grandchildren: Amari DuVall, Jaden Lingo, Aiden Richardson, and Jayvon Kitchens; sister: Sandra Jean Rumph (Kevin); special cousin like a brother: Rogers “Hawk” Beckett; aunt: Rovenia James; uncles: Rufus Garner (Lina) and Kenneth Garner (Angela); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and coworkers.

Tributes

Mr. Gary Marvin Garner

September 26, 1954 - July 14, 2017