Lois “Arlene” Garrett, 89, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Born on March 30, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Herman Lee and Lois Dowdy Duncan. She spent her childhood on the campus of Hampden-Sydney College outside of Farmville, VA. About a year after graduating from high school, Arlene married her high school sweetheart, George Edward Garrett, Jr. They were married for almost 52 years until his passing in 2007.
Arlene spent her life devoted to her faith, family, friends, church family, and community. She began each day by writing a prayer, which included the names of each of her children, grandchildren, spouses/partners, and great-grandchildren. She would then worship her Lord by playing hymns on her piano and singing. She was passionate about her yard and flower gardens. Weather permitting, she was outside enjoying nature, especially flowers, birds, and butterflies, and maintaining an immaculate yard. She was an avid reader and spent most of her afternoons reading on her porch or in her gazebo. She also enjoyed caring for and spending time with her daughter Susan’s dog, Milo.
Arlene was a long-time member of Yorkminster Presbyterian Church. During her 55 years of membership, she enjoyed sharing her musical gifts with her church by playing the piano for the youth and singing in the church choir. She was also a Bible Study leader for many women’s small groups. She was also active in visiting other members who could no longer attend church services in person.
Arlene was the devoted mother of daughter Susan Garrett Eng, son George Edward Garrett, III, and his partner Kay Landry. Her pride and joy were her four grandchildren: Landon Garrett Eng and wife Nicolle, Chet Aaron Garrett, Lauren Elizabeth Moore and husband Brett, and Glennis Garrett-Parker and husband Alec. She absolutely adored her only great-grandchild, Cameron George Eng.
Arlene’s life was enriched by her neighbors and friends who were faithful in visiting or calling to check on her. She was extremely grateful for the members of Yorkminster, who were always loving and supportive, and available when needed.
A memorial service and reception will be held at Yorkminster Presbyterian Church in Grafton, VA on Monday, March 10th at 10:00 a.m.
2 Comments
We will miss seeing Arlene on our walks with Brodie. She was such a kind, gentle soul and always had a kind word, a pat, and a smile for him. Our neighborhood has endured the loss of someone special.
Arlene was in my life for the past 5 years. I always found her with a smile on her face and to be a gentle soul. She worked very hard on her yard and in the past months she was moving leaves using the legs of her walker and to my amazement remained balanced. Arlene will be missed in our neighborhood.