Jack Burns Garrett, 98, of Columbia passed away Saturday, December 21, 2024 at his home. Jack was born August 5, 1926 in Corbin to his parents John and Rose Creech Garrett. Jack was a 1958 graduate of Cumberland College and a 1960 graduate of Eastern Kentucky State College (EKU). He was a retired physical education teacher and a state dairy inspector. After his retirement he owned and operated Garrett’s Bass Camp on Dale Hollow Lake where he enjoyed being a fishing guide.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Eunice Cox, Dixie Rich and Glenn Garrett. Jack was married to his wife, Jimmie Rose Elliott Garrett, for 66 years until her death in August 2023. Together they have two children who survive, John Patrick (Jean) Garrett and Jacqueline Rose (Steve) Burton; grandchildren, Elizabeth Rose (Joey) White and their children, Carter and Makayla Rose, Stacey Ward and daughter, Raven Davis and Sarah (Daniel) Young and their children Eliza and Elam; his good friends Bob Rice, Bobby Neal, Bonnie Cowan, Harve Turner; and his dog Happy. He was loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.
Jack was baptized at First Baptist Church in Corbin at a young age and rededicated his life to Christ in June of this year. He was a member of Trinity Church. He enjoyed life and entertained those around him with his humor and stories. Jack was considered “one of the finest athletes from Corbin.” He lettered in basketball, football and baseball. He was an all-state and all-American basketball player and played semi-pro basketball and baseball for the Oak Ridge Elks, House of David, and Whiskered Wizards teams. His House of David basketball team toured with the Harlem Globetrotters. Besides sports, Jack loved to fish for smallmouth bass, play checkers, camp and spent many winters in Florida. He enjoyed shopping for what he called a “good deal.” If you ever had the chance to meet him you would not forget it.
Jack chose cremation. A service will be held at a later date on Green River Lake.
Grissom-Martin Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
