Gene Garrison

Gene was born in Buffalo, New York, on October 30th, 1930, to John Peter Garrison and Marion Lucie Garrison. His first job was as a paperboy in Buffalo before graduating from Bennett High School. His passion for football secured him a scholarship to play for Clemson A&M. After college graduation, he was drafted into the NFL but opted to spend time with his wife and burgeoning family. Gene carried on his love of football through his participation as a long time city league youth football coach and high school football referee.

The first half of his career was spent in the poultry industry. After retiring from Swift & Co, he was able to devote time to his passion for the military by educating personnel in executive protection services. He served his country faithfully, retiring as a US Army Chief Warrant Officer 4. His continuing desire to serve led him to civilian deployments to Saudi Arabia, Bosnia, and Somalia. Closer to home, he was a long standing member of Helen Presbyterian Church, an ardent volunteer at the Festhalle, as well as an eager participant in various other activities in Helen, Georgia.

He is survived by his wife, Wilma Jean Elmore, whom he married in 1954; children Susan Garrison Holt, John Donald Garrison, Sharon Garrison Hartis and Sandra Garrison Lonsbury; grandchildren Taylor Ryan Yori and Mariah Ashley Yori. He is also survived by his sister Carol Garrison Tomlin and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Helen Presbyterian Church on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at 12:30 followed by a gathering of friends and family in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Helen Presbyterian Church, 8895 N. Main Street, Helen, GA 30545 would be truly appreciated.