Nathan "Keith" Garland

He was welcomed to his eternal home by his mother Jackie Dowell Garland, his little sister Laura Michelle Garland and his favorite grandparents, Nathan and Ada Garland as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents whom he loved dearly.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife, Deborah Shope Garland, his father, William Nathan Garland Jr., his daughter who will always be 'Daddys little girl', Melissa (Josh) Holder and his stepchildren, Lee Spirlin, Justin Spirlin and Elizabeth (Jimmy) Lineman as well as his sister Lisa Garland and brother Kenneth Garland.

His greatest joy was being called Papaw by his 13 grandchildren whom he adored and was very proud of. He was loved in return by (Melissa's) Brinley, Ragan, Cadence, Tyler, Calista, Emory, and Bradley. (Lee's) Hayden and McKenzie, (Justin's) Madison and Kensley, (Elizabeth's) Emma and Ella.

Keith loved to hunt and fish. He held dear to his memories of hunting adventures with his buddies as well as a lifetime of fishing memories with his dad. He especially loved going to the mountains for family reunions and camping. Some of his best and most memorable times were around the campfire on Sweetwater with his favorite people, laughing his own special laugh which everyone loved. He had the best sense of humor and could entertain a crowd or an audience of one.

Keith was fortunate enough to come from a very large family that has been left with a legacy of love by his grandparents. He loved each and every one, from the oldest to the youngest.

He was inseparable from his cousin, Danny Jenkins who he considered not only his cousin, but his brother and best friend. Danny was a great part of Keith's life, and his love for him was immeasurable.

On behalf of his wife and loving family, we are proud to say that our lives were better because he was a part of it.

We would like to thank the staff of Gaston Hospice.

Memorial donations can be made to them in Keith's name.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Sunday, November 27, at the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia.

A funeral service, officiated by Pastor Mickey Pruitt will be held 2:00 pm Monday, November 28, at the funeral home.

Interment will be in Hollywood Cemetery.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, Gastonia.