  Mary Lou Garrett 1933 - 2015   On September 14, 1926, Gather and Pearl Jones Garrett welcomed their firstborn son, Aderil, to their family in Wichita Falls. It was a tough world, one that put flesh on the "Greatest Generation." While still a little tyke, Aderil became "Blackie" because of his distinctive mop of curly black hair, a moniker that he was known for the rest of his life. Blackie was joined by a younger brother before tragedy struck the little family. Pearl died from childbirth complications, along with her and Gather's third son. Their father's illness not long after left 2 brothers alone. Thankfully, an aunt, Tessola Bedford, herself a single Mom, and big in faith but short in means, bravely took in the 2 boys to raise herself. While technically still a youth, Blackie exchanged what was left of his childhood for the sake of Duty, Honor and Country, lying about his age to join the Navy after the bombing of Pearl Harbor during World War II. Re-establishing himself after his return from the military, he met and married his love, Mary Lou Booker, on November 9, 1947. Together they shared the joys and challenges of raising 4 children while traveling the world with Blackie's work. No one who met Blackie could forget his infectious laugh and the humorous glint that never left his eyes. It endeared him to all he knew. Indeed, though his life here ended on April 13, 2019, his children, Sonoma, Allen "Buster," Bobby and Patti, 9 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren attest that his life with his Savior and loved ones who passed before him has just begun. Graveside services were held Thursday afternoon, April 18, 2019 at the Gunter Cemetery with Eric Hollar officiating. Blackie also received military honors by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard. Services were under the direction of Scoggins Funeral Home in Van Alstyne,  Gunter Cemetery Susan Hawkins © 2024 If you find any of Grayson County TXGenWeb links inoperable, please send me a message. |