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James Garner Obituary
He was found dead of natural causes at his home in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles Saturday evening, Los Angeles police officer Alonzo Iniquez said early Sunday.
James Garner, star of 'Maverick,' dies at 86
Memories and Condolences
for James Garner
1280 Entries
Stephanie Trageser
September 19, 2025
His acting was phenomenal, and his morals, values and integrity, impeccable. Always beloved, and so greatly appreciated and missed.
Andrea Zahour-Peckham
July 18, 2025
Loved him in all his comical movies. Loved him with Doris Day in Move Over Darling; loved him with Julie Andrew´s-such a handsome man and only five years younger than my dad.
Richard
March 2, 2025
He has been a hero for me since I was very young. Rockford Files was the greatest crime show ever.
Matthew peterson
January 25, 2025
He was and has been a great actor. I grew up on Rockford files. That´s where I learned to drive. lol. Rest easy brother.
Karen Lewis
August 9, 2024
He was my hero in Maverick! I watched every movie I could clear through The Notebook.
Diane Durham
July 13, 2024
Jul y 13,2024 I still miss James Garner. I lost my husband in 2021 and found my renewed interest in James Garner. Reading his books, watching his films, watching Rockford, following FB fan groups, etc. helped me to cope with my loss. I admire JG so much. He overcame so many obstacles to become the successful man that he did!! I wish I had had the opportunity to shake his hand and tell him how he touched the lives of so many people. Long live his memory!! Diane Durham
Ken. M
April 15, 2024
Hope your in a special place james garner! You brought a lot of special moments to this world.
Rip! Jim Rockford
Esde Hutton
December 20, 2023
Jim was a lovely man I met on a flight going to Utah to film the Diablo movie 1966. We chatted for over 2 hours and he invited me to join the crew/cast for meals, riding, etc. as my schedule in Utah allowed. Thankvyou Jim for all the lovely memories.
Pamela Slaughter
October 8, 2023
Mr. Garner You have become one of two heros in my life. My son was the first. When i lost him a few years back your legacy of acting became a huge comfort to me. Esp. Jim Rockford. I feel sad that i can never meet ypu in person just to say thank ypu and shake ypur hand. I admire you endlessly. Thank you for the legacy ypu left behind. It is beautiful as you are!
Mary Meek
September 8, 2023
I’ve been infatuated with James Garner since my childhood ( I’m now 66) , first watching him in his films with Doris Day, TV series Maverick, then countless other tv shows and films over the years. Support Your Local Sheriff is still one of my favorites. He was a master of comedy, romance and drama. He was the most handsome man with a sweet, gorgeous smile and gentlemanly manners. Thank you for sharing your beloved James with us, his adoring fans. Love Always
Jane M
July 19, 2023
James Garner has left many memorable performances for all of his fans to remember this very special gentleman. On this date in 2014, the world lost a legend from the entertainment industry. May he continue to sleep in heavenly peace--Jane M.
Daryl
January 17, 2023
I will always remember James Garner as Jim Rockford in "The Rockford Files". Watched it when I was 15 years old & I still watched it today on Get TV.
Doug DeTray
October 28, 2022
I still watch him daily on the Rockford Files. He is so smooth and a nice guy. Just love angel and him together.
Diane Sayer
July 19, 2021
He's my favorite actor to this day. His brand of humor needs to be emulated for conflict resolution, in these contentious days.
Rob Auerbach (Bronx)
April 3, 2021
It's April 2021 and I still think of him often. He was great in The Great Escape and I hope he's somewhere playing catch with Steve McQueen. It's hard when all the people you respect start passing away. In my head their both still alive!
David B. Canchola
February 18, 2020
I Miss Jim to this day
as a Kid growing up in the 1970's I Loved Watching Maverick and Rockford Files May his lasting legacy live on for generations to come My thoughts and prayers are with his Family and Loved ones during this deep sorrow
David B. Canchola
February 18, 2020
I still miss Jim to this day may his legacy live
on forever I loved his TV Shows Maverick and Rockford Files TV was better back then my thoughts and prayers go to his Family and Loved ones May God Comfort them Through this deep sorrow.
Donna Loebler
October 26, 2018
I miss Jim everyday. He was one of a kind.
July 20, 2018
Thinking of Jim today.
July 19, 2018
Jim will be forever missed by those who admired this beloved talent and gentleman. Four years have passed since he left his family and a world filled by his many, many fans. Jane M.
V M
May 18, 2018
How in love was I with the man who was Maverick during my early teen years! And Rockford, you were the best. What a witty, charming, talented and handsome man you were. Nobody can hold a candle to you, dear Jim. We will miss you greatly.
Toughie
December 26, 2017
Yesterday was Christmas 2017. I received the Rockford files series as a Christmas gift. I couldn't have asked for anything better! My grandparents used to watch this in the 70s when we stayed with them on Friday night! Makes me think of simpler times. James Garner was a great talent, one of the absolute best. He'll be around a long time in our hearts and in our memories. God bless you! I was pretty young when your series came out on Rockford Files but now I'm in my late forties and old enough to appreciate the good writing and acting. Thank you mr. Garner!
Christopher Mangan
July 23, 2017
I spent the Evening watching "The Notebook". This movie always "gets" me with its superb cast. James was one of my favorite actors and I do miss him!
July 19, 2017
It has been three years since the world lost this beloved gentleman. He will be forever remembered as an outstanding talent who entertained millions. Jimmy you are truly missed. Jane M.
Terrie Collins
July 7, 2017
As I write this I am watching Rockford Files! I have enjoyed every minute of every Season! RIP James Garner! You will always be remembered! God Bless the Garner Family.
John A. Cooney
June 3, 2017
GOD BLESS YOU AND FAMILY.. REST IN PEACE...
Dana Regan
March 29, 2017
I miss Jim every time I watch tv. I keep every Rockford Files season and movie in my truck, along with his movies like Maverick and Murphy's Romance. A true great actor. RIP Jimbo.
Jessica Townley
March 14, 2017
James Garner has been my favorite actor since I was a child. My absolute favorite series is Rockford Files and I still enjoy watching these shows today. I watched Maverick the other day and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thanks for all the wonderful memories.
Ethel Tomlinson
December 10, 2016
To the Garner Family, I just watched James Garner on a Johnny Carson rerun. Thank you for sharing Mr. Garner with the world. Murphy's Romance is still one of my all time favorites, which I watch at least every two years. I was blessed to have received an autographed picture in 2013. Thank you for that. Wishing his family peace and blessings, especially at this time of year. Ethel Tomlinson (KCMO)
Donna Kroesche
August 27, 2016
Dear Garner Family......I have spent a good part of today watching James Garner movies.....he was the best.....on and off screen. His life was surely a gift to his family and friends and his loyal fans.
July 24, 2016
It has been two years since Jimmy went to his heavenly reward. He will forever be in the hearts of those who admired and loved him. May his family and friends believe that he is resting in peace. Mac
rita wilson
July 20, 2016
missing one of the greatest actors, and he was not a fake, he said it the way it was and lived it the way it is. thanks James Garner for all the memories of you, in al your movies, rest in peace! rita
LUISA M. STELTZ
July 19, 2016
TRULY 1 OF MY "ALL TIME FAVORITE ACTORS" WHO ALSO STARRED IN 1--OF THE VERY BEST, LOVING, SPECIAL MOVIES EVER MADE..."MURPHY'S ROMANCE"...ON THIS DAY MARKING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS PASSING, "I TIP MY HAT TO YOU JAMES GARNER"... RIP ETERNALLY...ALWAYS 1-OF YOUR BIGGEST FANS.....
SINCERELY,
LUISA M. STELTZ
Antoinette Wells
July 19, 2016
Continue to sleep in peace. You definitely left a lasting impression on the acting world...
July 3, 2016
Jimmy has over 1,054 condolence messages of love from people around the world. This gentle man was truly admired and will be forever missed. May his family know they are still in the thoughts and prayers of many. Jane M.
Valenda Newell
June 27, 2016
The last of the debonair actors, JAMES you will stay in our memories forever, class can't be taught you either have it or not, JAMES you always had it. A TRUE ACTOR in every sense of the word....YOU ARE MISSED..MANY PRAYERS
Allison Dupont
March 7, 2016
Brilliant actor. Never forgotten, Rest in Peace sir.
Dennis Ridgway
February 27, 2016
I love The Rockford Files. I don't think I ever missed an episode. I still watch reruns today. Love you, man.
ben varley
December 1, 2015
Miss you friend
Ray Harmon
October 26, 2015
I am just glad that I got to meet you and work with you. I will never forget the good times we shared and how much you loved the game of golf. RIP my friend
susan verre
September 29, 2015
jim rockford I am miss you love Susan berre
September 10, 2015
Mr. Garner had such charm and charisma on screen as well as off screen. He will be sadly missed in the movie and tv industry. What a well rounded actor he was.
W
Cheryl Olson
September 4, 2015
The man was a treasure who brought joy to an unfathomable amount of people. Our loss is great, but he is bringing the same joy to the souls in Heaven now. My thoughts and prayers remain with you.
August 21, 2015
He was simply the best at what he did; He had style and timing plus grace and talent.
July 20, 2015
To Jim's family: May your memories give you comfort and know that many, many people still have you in their thoughts and prayers. Remember that they live forever in our hearts. JM a long time admirer of this gentle man
Linda Shangraw
July 4, 2015
A great actor that will be sadly missed by the world.R.I.P.
June 10, 2015
John 11:33 says: "When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping and groaning, he groaned within himself and became troubled." Jesus expressed tears when his friend Lazarus died, he knows how it feels to lose a dead loved one and he understands what you and your family are experiencing. May this bring you and your family comfort in this time of need. cjp (fla.)
February 24, 2015
To the Garner Family, I was just a huge fan of Mr. Garner's. I watched the Rockford Files all the time, and still do watch his work all the movies.. I also absolutely loved his movies. movies. I will miss him and his wonderful work as an actor and as a person. Did you know that my brother knew his daughter Gigi at USC? I'm sorry about his passing and he will be missed. Thanks, Leslie Klurfeld
susan verre
January 25, 2015
jim rock ford i will
light you candel for you love
susan verrre
CHERYL PLEAR
January 12, 2015
I have been watching James Garner on DVD'S FOR MANY DAYS. HE IS WONDREFUL EYE CANDY. I ENJOYED WATCHIN HIM IN THE 60'S 70'S 80'S 90'S. HIS FILMS WITH DORIS DAY MAKE ME SMILE. THEIR ON-SCREEN CHEMISTRY IS HOT. I WISH ICOULD HAVE MET HIM IN PERSON. AS AN AFRICAN AMERICAN, I AM APPRECIATIVE OF HIS INVOLVEMENT IN THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT AT A TIME WHEN IT WAS NOT THE POPULAR CAUSE TO FIGHT FOR. I LOVE YOU JAMES GARNER. REST IN PEACE. I WILL SEE YOU IN HEAVEN.
December 11, 2014
He will be missed by so many of us.
Joe Fitzgerald
November 27, 2014
God Bless James. Thank you for the service to your country. And for the many hours of entertainment our entire family loved for many years. Blessing and deepest sympathy to his family and friends. We loved you James. Thanks. Rest in peace.
susan verre
November 26, 2014
James garner my name is Susan Verre I will let your candel light iam pray for you I miss you really a lot love Susan Verre
Ellen
November 17, 2014
It's been some time since he passed but I wanted to say, as a child of the 70s there had never NOT been James Garner around on TV and movies, he always had been there and "always would be" - a world without him feels much colder. Also, about 20 years ago my grandma was dying of cancer, we had home hospice and she was uncomfortable and depressed, I put on the TV and it just happened to be the Maverick movie (with Mel Gibson) and when she saw James Garner was in it, she immediately cheered up and we had a beautiful afternoon watching it together, one of the last we had. I hope Mr Garner's family had beautiful days with him toward the end of his life too. God bless.
November 17, 2014
Rip James
Patricià Joyner
November 8, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
November 6, 2014
Hard to believe he was 86 yrs old. Where did the time go? Glad they have reruns of these type of shows without such men as Mr. Garner I wouldn't want to watch television.
margaret robertson
October 24, 2014
So sad just to learn of the death of someone who almost everyone loved and admired thro all his tv appearances.Great guy. Forever in our hearts and lives.xx
Thanks....from a devoted fan
Sue Jones
October 11, 2014
We have TV shows and movies to celebrate his life on earth. Thanks for the memories. RIP
October 9, 2014
Jimmy is forever in the thoughts and prayers of so many. He was an unique gentleman and a terrific actor. May his family know that the world shares their loss. He will always be in your hearts. A friend
Sue Kett
September 30, 2014
The last of the greats! Another of the lights has gone out. James Garnder brought so much "style" to everything he did and seemed such a great person. You'll be missed.
A devoted fan
September 29, 2014
Jim Garner was a charming, handsome and witty man, but also a warm, sincere and selfless man. Acting was natural for him and believable for us. His life is truly an inspiration!
Hilda Spell
September 19, 2014
Mr. Garner, you have been a favorite of mine since the beginning of time. You were always gentlemanly, kind and just really made me laugh with your subtle wit and your smile. I already miss you and I know that the world is not going to be a better place now that you are gone. You are my hero and my God be with your family.
September 19, 2014
Bret and Bart Maverick entertained me as a child and many more memorable films were executed in good taste, most family oriented displaying talent and character one could relate to. There seemed to be a morality to Jim, lacking in the films and "entertainment" of today. A great man not to be duplicated.Fondly,Rebecca Shackett Puyallup, Washington
September 15, 2014
Jimmy will be remembered as a gentle man who was loved by many. He had a smile that was memorable and an outstanding personality. He was a natural actor who never looked like he was acting. May he now rest in peace. A Fan
September 12, 2014
Jimmy was the one of the best actors we had. Every role he played was memorable. He should have received an oscar for his amazing performance in The Notebook. He will forever be in our hearts. Just one of his many admirers
Amanda Macintire
September 10, 2014
When I think of the years of childhood, one of fondest memories is of watching The Rockford Files and it makes me smile. Jimmy was always one of my most favorite actors. He lives forever in hearts; he will be missed.
September 10, 2014
These messages of love for Jimmy continue. His family now knows how beloved this man was to the world. I hope these messages will help his family at this very sad time. A friend
Jenn Rutherford
September 9, 2014
I remember watching James Garner in the movie Murphy's Romance. That was one of my favorite movies!! RIP James!!
September 8, 2014
To Lois and daughters: Know that Jimmy was a beloved man who will be missed by many, many people throughout the world. You and your girls are in our prayers. A friend
September 6, 2014
To Jimmy's family: He was a very special human being who was loved by thousands of people. You are in the thoughts and prayers of many. He will always remain in our hearts. An admirer
Deanna Clark
September 1, 2014
I have a feeling James Garner is sitting on God's lap...he was my kind of saint.
His family will really miss his voice and I hope they hear it in their dreams.
Always a fan...Deanna Clark...and her Dad who already went home.
ps James, aren't you thrilled at all the dogs in Heaven? I have done as Gigi said and made a dog's day for you.
Larry Williams
August 31, 2014
Mr James Garner I grew up watching The Rockford Files. I am 48 years old & you have always been my favorite actor. I used to try & perfect the Rockford 180 when I started driving at 16. I know you & Noah Barry AKA Rocky are fishing & enjoying each other as you did when you both were with us. Rest easy Mr Garner you will truly missed.
August 31, 2014
You would never know me from "Adam" but you were you favourite actor , EVER.
I am 67 years of age and have seen kost of your movies and watched the "Maverick" and "The Rockford Files" over and over.
You are one person on this earth, I wish I had met.
thank you, James Garner. R.I.P.
Richie BLANCH,.
Charlestown,
N.S.W.
AUSTRALIA
ciynd knavel
August 29, 2014
James, what a wonderful actor!!! I will miss you, even though I never met you. You brought such joy to me with your movies. Thank you for such joy. I grew up watching your movies and tv shows. You were wonderful in the notebook and it really touched my heart. I'm sure the angels are smiling having you with them! you will truly be missed. I loved you, because your acting brought such joy to my life. A great actor/person has been lost and will NEVER be forgotten. rip james and know that millions of people thank you and love you.
August 28, 2014
Jimmy's family has received so many loving condolence messages because of the worldwide love for this special man. May the Garner family find some comfort in knowing that thousands of people share their loss. A Friend
August 27, 2014
My two favorite roles of Jimmy were Noah Calhoun in The Notebook and Rockford. His outstanding performances of both men were memorable. I will miss this beloved actor who had a terrific smile. May he now sleep in heavenly peace. JM
August 26, 2014
One of our greatest actors has left us. Jimmy was a beloved entertainer who will always be remembered for his outstanding talent. May he now rest in peace. A Friend
August 25, 2014
These messages of sympathy continue for this beloved man. He was an amazing talent who will never be duplicated---there was only one Jimmy. We have lost an icon who is now a legend. A fan
Sherri Kelly
August 24, 2014
My husband and I enjoyed the laughs you gave us. I think Maverick character, plus the recent movie is our favorite because you were so genuine. Thank you for sharing yourself with us! May God be with your family for now and always.
August 23, 2014
Jimmy's phenomenal performance in The Notebook should have won him his long overdue Oscar. He was an amazing actor and a remarkable man. May his family be surrounded by love at this very sad time. An admirer
Bill Vercammen
August 22, 2014
James my old friend, you will be dearly missed. The pleasures and treasures that surrounded you will forever be embraced by those who loved and admired your work, your composure, and your tempered presence. May the wind be forever at your back, a high collar forever yours to beat the rain, and a wide-brimmed Stetson yours to shade your brow. Keep your powder dry, my friend.
Sam Daniels
August 22, 2014
Rest in peace Jim.
August 21, 2014
In The Garner Files, Jimmy said he would like to be remembered "with a smile." This simple request is not surprising from such a beloved gentleman. You made all of us smile and now we smile back at you-A friend
Jillian
August 19, 2014
May the Beautiful Memories of your loved one provide solace and strength to you and your family during this difficult time. May you also find comfort in God's promise of life without end. Matthew 5:5 , Acts 25:15
JOYCELYN LYNUM
August 18, 2014
THE PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY OF JAMES GARNER. ENJOYED HIS PERFORMANCES ON THE BIG & SMALL SCREENS; WITTY HUMOR AND PLEASANT SMILE. HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED.
Amy H
August 17, 2014
He will be greatly missed by my family and myself. I'm probably not the average fan at age 34, but my parents shared the love of his movies with me and I've been a fan since childhood. In fact one of my first and most treasured memories is watching "Support Your Local Sheriff/Gunfighter" with my dad. I especially enjoyed his movies with Director Blake Edwards, and "Victor Victoria" and "Sunset" are in my top ten movies of all time. His talent, charm, and genuine personality will be missed by anyone that was lucky enough to have seen him in any of his many roles and that "what you see, is what you get" approach to his life and work made you respect and admire him even more. The world is a sad place with his loss. My sincerest condolences to his family. I will miss him every time I watch one of his movies, especially as he was one of the last true cowboys of film and a great comedic actor. And every word of this is the truth, "Give or take a lie or two" (Greatest one liner of all time! He will be missed.
August 16, 2014
To Jimmy's family: The messages of sympathy continue so you may know how beloved he was to the world. All of you are in the thoughts and prayers of many. An admirer of this gentleman
August 15, 2014
What an outstanding talent the world has loss. He deserved to win awards, but was overlooked so many times. The variety of roles he portrayed were memorable. He was a beloved human being. Jimmy will always be in our hearts. An admirer
August 14, 2014
To Jimmy's family; So many people have all of you in their thoughts and prayers. He was a beloved man who will always be remembered for his uniqueness. May your memories help you through this very sad time. A Friend
Sharon Amos
August 14, 2014
Rest in Peace. Look for my dad up in heaven, he was a great fan of yours and died 10 days before you. You will be greatly missed. My grief was extended when you passed in the same month as my dear dad. I really enjoyed your movies and TV series' Rockford Files was wonderful. Good by dear man.
Judy Huff
August 13, 2014
May God Bless you and your Family!!! Thank-you for sharing your wonderfull movie's with us!! You will missed!!
August 13, 2014
I grew up watching you Jim, and to this day still enjoy your work. Thank you for being so great! Rest in peace!
Karen Vincent
August 13, 2014
A wonderful actor, a great human being. He always made you feel so comfortable in all his movies. We'd always say Jimmy's on when the Rockford Files started; he will truly missed and his great smile!
August 12, 2014
Through innumerable tributes and condolence messages it is obvious that the world loved Jimmy. So many people feel the loss of this remarkable man. He will forever be in our hearts. A friend
D Garner
August 12, 2014
Rip in peace Mr Garner, I knew if you were in the movie, it was going to be good. I always liked your style and of course we had the same last name.
Donna Gareis
August 12, 2014
Rest In Peace, Thank you for all of the years of entertainment. My mom and I enjoyed watching you. Still watch reruns of Thrill of It All and your movies. Rockford Files,Your recent Hallmark movie. Your voice sure caught your attention. may your memories bring comfort to your family and friends
Gretchen Schoonmaker Ellis
August 12, 2014
Everyone wonders what a real man would be like if he were incandescently handsome, honest, rich and talented. He would be James Garner.
/Gretchen Schoonmaker Ellis
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