Gene Frederick “Fred” Garrett, 74, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. He was the son of the late William Ira “Duck” Garrett Sr. and Jean Hargrave Garrett and was preceded in death by his two older brothers, William I. Garrett Jr. and John E. Garrett, along with his beloved fur babies, Cotton and Pebbles, and best friend, Kenneth W. “Kenny” Hunt.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife and longtime soulmate, Donia F. “Faye” Shaw; his daughter, Brandy Garrett Palazzone (Derek); his son, Wayne Frederick Garrett (Autumn); his step‑son, Luther K. “Luke” McBee; his only grandchild, Makenzie Diane Palazzone, lovingly known to him as “Sweetie.” He is also survived by his loyal fur baby, Louie; his brother, Steven M. Garrett (Doria), his sister, Kathy Garrett McNeil, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Fred was a Master Electrician by trade, but his gifts reached far beyond his profession. Whether he was playing the drums, shaping wood into something beautiful, baking cakes for the people he loved, or fixing anything set in front of him, Fred’s hands told the story of a lifetime, one built on skill, devotion, and quiet creativity. His gentle spirit, steady presence, quick wit and unmistakable sense of humor will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Roberto A. Dial.