Joe B. Garrett

Joe B. Garrett, 94 years old, of Temperance, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Hospice Care in his home on March 26th, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on January 29th, 1931, to the late Florence Garrett and John Lee Garrett, in Calf Creek, KY.

Joe went by many nicknames, most commonly Jay, J.B. and Uncle Jay. He was affectionately called Dada by his grandchildren and their friends who loved to go over to his home after school to play and have snacks. This nickname was born from his significant role in raising his grandchildren, whom he cherished. Joe maintained a close relationship with his son, Stanley J. Garrett, and daughter-in-law, Laura A. Garrett, whom he treated like his own daughter. Stanley and Laura are forever grateful for Joe’s endless love, time, energy, and support.

Seeking a better life, Joe left his home in Calf Creek, KY and eventually settled in Chelsea, MI with his wife, Venice (Collins) Garrett. Here, they raised Stanley. Joe worked various manufacturing jobs in the auto and book publishing industries until he retired. After retiring, he continued his favorite job of all: taking care of and spending time with his family. He was an extraordinary husband, father, father-in-law, uncle, and grandfather whose family adored him.

Joe was widowed on September 8th, 2016, when his late wife, Venice (Collins) Garrett, passed away peacefully on Hospice Care in their home at 80 years old. He missed her dearly and honored her memory in many ways, including bringing flowers and visiting her grave consistently since her passing. She was the love of his life, best friend, and partner in all matters.

His favorite past times included spending time with family, enjoying the sun and breeze on nice weather days, and appreciating nature and animals. Joe also enjoyed watching classic old western movies starring John Wayne, raising tomatoes in his backyard, cooking southern comfort foods, making the best chili, soups, mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes. Joe took great pride in keeping his home clean and his lawn neatly trimmed. Joe was frequently spotted riding his tractor around the yard in his blue jeans and sun-protective hat in the summer.

Joe had a well-known sweet tooth and lived by the philosophy of enjoying the small things in life, like cheesecake and chocolate candies. His favorite line to cajole someone into having candy with him was: "One candy bar won't hurt anything." He offered everyone chocolates from his not-so-secret candy stash and made sure no one left his home hungry or thirsty.

Joe’s love was abundant. He moved from Chelsea MI to Temperance MI to help raise his grandchildren with love and goodness. He always wanted to make others smile and laugh and often succeeded. He was a calm and gentle man who valued family, community, equal rights, and fair treatment for everyone. He passes this legacy down to his son, Stanley J. Garrett, daughter-in-law, Laura A. Garrett, and grandchildren, Emily D. Garrett and Joseph F. Garrett as well as his numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Grace Leslie, Launa Collins, Wonnie Garrett, Dallas Garrett and Gordon Garrett. Joe will be dearly missed and will always be dearly loved. He lives on in the hearts and memories of his loved ones.

Family and friends will be received from 4-7 PM, Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, April 4, 2025, at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church, 719 Evesham Ave., Toledo, OH. Interment will follow the Funeral Mass at Whiteford Union Cemetery at 4160 Sterns Rd, Lambertville, MI 48144.