It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ed Garrett, a beloved figure who touched the lives of many. He passed away Jan. 29, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Winston-Salem in 1938, he spent his life making lasting connections and leaving an indelible mark on the communities he called home.
Ed grew up in the picturesque town of Brevard attending Christ School in Asheville and later graduating from Brevard High School in 1957. Following his passion for education, he pursued higher studies at Davidson College and East Tennessee State University.
During the Cuban missile crisis, he bravely served his country in the United States Air Force demonstrating a commitment to duty that would become a hallmark of his character. Post-military service, he entered the professional world in Charlotte and found his niche in sales working for Squibb Pharmaceuticals, where he called on drug stores across the region.
In 1972, the opening of the Connestee Falls community provided him the opportunity to return to his beloved Brevard. From that point forward, he dedicated his career to sales and land development in various communities. His work in real estate development took him from Brevard, to Sapphire Valley, to Lake Lure, to Pawleys Island, to Lake Toxaway and finally to Gatlinburg. His work ethic and passion for connecting with people made him a respected and admired professional in these locales.
He had a zest for life that extended beyond his professional pursuits. He maintained lifelong friendships with individuals from Christ School, Brevard, Lake Lure and Gatlinburg. Known for his love of risk, he enjoyed gambling, playing craps, betting on sports and engaging in a round of golf whenever the opportunity arose. He was affectionately known as “Mugger” to all the Glen Cannon golf dogfighters, who bestowed this nickname upon him because of his uncanny ability to always take his opponent’s money on the golf course.
Above all, he cherished his role as a father and grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by his brother, Jim Garrett (Toni), of Brevard; children, Scott Garrett (Emily), of Columbia, Matt Garrett (Tammy), of Charlotte, Anna Garrison (Johnnie), of Sevierville and Katie Garrett, of Nashville; and his grandchildren, Sawyer Garrison, Tucker Garrison, River Garrison, Sarah Garrett, Andrew Garrett, Nick Garrett and Leyton Garrett.
He was preceded in death by his sister Ann Ayers.
His love for his family was boundless, and his impact on their lives will be a source of inspiration for generations to come.
He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but for the warmth, humor and love he shared with family and friends. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of Ed Garrett’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 10, 2024 at Dugan’s Pub in Brevard. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.