Cecil Iven Garrett

Cecil Iven Garrett, a beloved figure in the Gastonia community, passed away on April 29, 2025, at his home. He was born on August 11, 1934, in Dade County, Florida, to David Andrew "D.A." and Mabel Kato Garrett.

Cecil was a devoted member of Fraley Memorial Baptist Church, where he not only served as an ordained deacon but also spent many years as chairman. He retired from the U.S. Marine Corps after more than 24 years, proudly completing two tours in Vietnam. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family, his church family, and enjoying fishing trips, where friendly debates about who was the best angler were both common and cherished.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barbara Saxon, and his son Russell Campbell.

Cecil leaves behind his loving wife of 40 years, Diane Garrett, along with his children: Scott Campbell, Camille Lynn Garrett, and Gregory Clark Garrett. He also took great joy in the lives of his grandchildren: Janie Elizabeth Campbell, Kayla Kristine Anderson, Haven Rae'ann Campbell, Steven Chase Garrett, and Blane Garrett, as well as eight great-grandchildren.

A funeral service for Cecil will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Fraley Memorial Baptist Church located at 3025 Fraley Church Road, Gastonia, NC. After the service, he will be laid to rest at Gaston Memorial Park in Gastonia. Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Friday, May 2, 2025, at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a memorial donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at https://t2t.org/donate/ or to Fraley Memorial Baptist Church at PO Box 775, Lowell, NC 28098.

Cecil will be missed deeply by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Online condolences can be made at www.greenefuneral.com