Michael Denear Garrett

On November 7, 1963 in Talladega, Alabama, Charlie Frank Garrett and Lena Maezonia Player Garrett Smith welcomed to the world a baby boy who was given the name Michael Denear Garrett. He was the youngest of his siblings and brought immense joy and laughter to his family throughout his life. Michael was educated in the Talladega City School System where he attended Talladega High School. Upon completing his education, Michael joined the workforce in the construction industry. An avid Auburn football fan, Michael's enthusiasm for the game created many lively conversations and memorable experiences with friends and loved ones. Whether passionately cheering for his favorite team or working construction, Michael's dedication and commitment were always evident. He took great pride in his work, particularly in the field of construction, where his skills and expertise were employed to build and shape the community he called home. Michael, affectionately known as "Lil Mike" to family and friends brought laughter to everyone he encountered with his sarcastic ways. He was always full of life and never complained about anything. He was definitely a loving pawpaw to his five beautiful granddaughters and three grandsons. Michael could use nearly any tool you put in his hands, which made him a great handyman, but in his leisure time, Mr. Garrett enjoyed a good laugh with friends, watching westerns, and catching a rerun of Matlock and Gunsmoke. He was also the best neighborhood watchman a community could ask for. As Michael traveled this 59-year earthly journey, he met his soulmate, the former Ms. Maria Simmons, and together they became one when they were united in Holy Matrimony sharing over 31 blessed years together, six loving children, and eight beautiful grandchildren. His unwavering love and dedication to his family, especially his adorable wife Maria, served as the foundation for a lifetime of precious memories and cherished moments. As a father, Michael held a special bond with his children, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support in all their endeavors. As we gather to commemorate Michael's life, let us remember the many valuable lessons he imparted and the laughter he shared. Although Michael's physical presence may be gone, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Michael found solace and joy in the simplicity of life's pleasures. Gardening and yard work were among his favorite pastimes, as he took pride in nurturing and beautifying his surroundings. Michael transitioned from this life to a peaceful rest on the evening of September 24, 2023 while under the care of UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Frank Garrett and Lena Maezonia Garrett Smith, grandmother, Luevator Player Estelle, brothers, Karey Garrett, Terry Garrett, and Charlie Frank Garrett III, sisters, Barbara Glover, Nellie Faye Player, and Sherry Scott, uncles, Nathaniel Player, Sr. and James Estelle; and aunt, Evelyn Patterson. Michael will be deeply missed by his loving and devoted wife, Maria Garrett; daughter, Deneshia Simmons of Talladega, Alabama; five sons, Nakia (Kyrel) Simmons of Eastaboga, Alabama, Octavious Ragland, Nicholas (Loukisha) Simmons, DeMicah (Mykia) Simmons, and Damian (Brantavia) Simmons, all of Talladega, Alabama; eight grandchildren, Isabella Simmons, D'Myriah Simmons, Honesty Simmons, Payton Simmons, Damian Simmons, Jr., Cadence Ragland, Aahmod Ragland, and Grayson Ragland, all of Talladega, Alabama; three brothers, Billy Joe (Rachel) Player and Arthur Ray (Tonya) Garrett of Talladega, Alabama, and Stanley Garrett of Opelika, Alabama; four sisters, Robin (Robert) Scott of Talladega, Alabama, Ruth Tyson of Mauldlin, South Carolina, Valerie Thompson and Gwendolyn Hill of Detroit, Michigan; aunt, Judy Estelleof Talladega, Alabama; uncle, John Ernest Player of Talladega, Alabama; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends. As we mourn the loss of Michael, may we find joy in the memories we shared and keep his spirit alive through the love and kindness we show one another. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and his legacy will live on through the lives he touched. Forever remembered and loved, may Michael Garrett soul find eternal peace.

Tributes

Michael Denear Garrett

November 7, 1963 - September 24, 2023