Kent Garrett

Harry Kent Garrett, age 72, of Galax, Virginia passed away on Saturday August 23, 2025 in his home. He was born in Damascus, Virginia, on March 29, 1953, to Ralph and Mona Stamper Garrett. He was preceded in death by his wife Sharon Garrett and his father Ralph Garrett.

Kent dedicated more than 35 years of his life to Galax High School as both a teacher and coach. Known for his quick wit and unique way of connecting with students, he often offered extra credit in exchange for breakfast biscuits, a memory that still makes his former students smile. Over the years, he coached basketball, football, track, and volleyball, leaving a lasting impact on countless student athletes. Beyond the classroom and sidelines, Kent worked for many years at Twin County Cinemas, where his friendly spirit and easy humor were always present.

Family was the heart of Kent’s world. He loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren, whether it was helping Harper’s Little League softball team, sharing kitchen time while cooking with his granddaughters, or talking baseball with his grandson. Kent loved competition, but it was always rooted in fun and connection. He was a fierce contender in family UNO games, proudly fighting for the coveted UNO trophy, and his skills at ROOK were nothing short of legendary. Friends and family alike knew they could count on him to host watch parties for every WWE and sporting event, where food, laughter, and good company were guaranteed.

Acts of service were the truest expression of Kent’s love. He showed care through food, hospitality, and an open door that welcomed everyone in. Whether coaching, cooking, or simply listening, Kent created a space where people felt seen, valued, and loved. His legacy is one of generosity, joy, and a heart that never stopped giving.

Kent will be remembered not only for the roles he held, as a teacher, coach, coworker, and friend, but for the way he made people feel in his presence. He had a gift for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories, whether it was a family game night, a meal shared from his kitchen, or a conversation on the sidelines of a ballfield. His laughter, kindness, and unwavering support will continue to echo in the lives of those he touched. To know Kent was to know a man who loved deeply, gave freely, and lived every day with a heart wide open. 

Left to cherish his memory is his mother Mona Garrett of Damascus, Virginia; daughter Mandy (Steve) Lloyd of Annandale, Virginia; sons Jeremy Garrett and Josh (Jamie) Garrett, all of Galax, Virginia; and grandchildren Hannah Lloyd, Brian Lloyd, and Harper Garrett. Also surviving are sisters Joy Cole and Jamie Huffman of Damascus, Virginia, Jan (Boyd) Greer of Glade Spring, Virginia; brothers Kim Garrett of Petersburg, Kentucky, Terry (Roxanna) Garrett of Ivanhoe, Virginia, Todd (Jill) Garrett of Damascus, Virginia; sister-in-law Freda Wyatt of Lodi, Virginia; honorary son Josh King of Galax, Virginia; countless nieces and nephews, and many special friends and family.

The memorial service will be held on Thursday August 28, 2025, at 7PM in First Baptist Church, Galax, VA, with Verl Brown officiating. The family will receive friends at First Baptist Church from 5PM until time of the service.