John Lawrence Garrett 91, born February 25, 1934, Maryville Tennessee passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 6, 2026. Preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Garrett and Jenny OT Garrett and his siblings, James D. Garrett, Frances Garrett, Edward Garrett, Alma Owens.

John was a devoted husband and father. He married his high school sweetheart, Kay Miles and Kay and John recently celebrated 71 years of marriage. After their marriage they moved to Fort Bragg where he served in the army. While at Fort Bragg John completed jump school and became a member of the 82nd airborne division. Upon completion of service, they returned to their hometown of Maryville. His love of the air and the sea led him to pursue a prosperous career in aviation where he started a successful charter company, Silver Aviation. John also served for a number of years on the Board of Directors for Home Federal Bank.

He loved to be on the water as well. He obtained his sea captains license and would captain many vessels over his lifetime.  He and Kay traveled to many places throughout the world and went on many sailing adventures throughout the Caribbean. Later in life he and Kay took their boat down the Tombigbee Waterway to Florida where they decided they would like to live during retirement. They settled in Naples in the lovely community of Fox Fire. He enjoyed many years with great friends and playing golf. Coming full circle, he returned to Maryville living out his final years near family.

John is survived by his wife, Kay Garrett; children, Craig Garrett (Shari) and Kim Ward (Bill); grandchildren, Garrett Ward (Sarah), Kayla Millsaps (Jarrod), Kendell Vonckx (Derek), Lexie Ward (Tijmen), John Garrett; 3 great grandchildren; and special niece and nephews, Francy Hensley, Sam Garrett, Jimmy Garrett, and Dave Owens.

A celebration of John's life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Miller Funeral Home.