Freddie Garrett

In Loving Memory of Mr. Freddie B. Garrett, Sr.

With deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Mr. Freddie B. Garrett, Sr., who departed this life peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, at his home in South Amboy, New Jersey. He was 95 years old.

Born on August 9, 1929, in Nathalie, Virginia, Freddie was the youngest of eight surviving children born to Lorenzo Garrett and Callie Lacks Garrett. He was preceded in death by his siblings Willie, Jennie, James, Edward, Nanny, Clarence, and Edmond, as well as several stepbrothers and stepsisters.

Freddie's early life in rural Virginia was marked by perseverance and dedication. As a young boy, he walked five miles each way to school before leaving to help support his family-a decision that reflected his lifelong values of hard work and sacrifice.

At the age of 23, Freddie proudly served his country in the United States Army Artillery Division during the Korean War. His courage and commitment during that time left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Even decades later, he spoke vividly about his experiences during the war-memories that shaped the honorable man he became.

In his mid-twenties, Freddie relocated to New Jersey. He lived with his brother Clarence in Metuchen and spent meaningful time with his Aunt Louise and Uncle Happy in Montclair. These early years were filled with strong family connections and frequent visits to loved ones-especially treasured road trips back to Virginia.

In the late 1950s, a chance encounter on a rainy day in Edison led Freddie to Maxine Wilson. After accidentally splashing her with water from a pothole, Freddie offered a sincere apology-and a date. That moment sparked a love story that would span more than six decades. They married in Newark and built a warm and welcoming home in Somerset, New Jersey, where they raised five children. Their home on Clinton Street became the heart of countless family gatherings-pool parties, holidays, weddings-all filled with laughter and love. Though their home was lost to a fire in 2015, its spirit lives on in cherished memories.

Freddie worked tirelessly to provide for his family. By day he drove trucks for local lumber mills; by night he maintained buses for Suburban Bus Company in New Brunswick. His dedication earned him recognition such as Employee of the Month and Year-testaments to his work ethic and positive presence on the job.

Despite facing a long illness later in life, Freddie never complained. His quiet strength and unwavering faith carried him through each day with grace and dignity.

Freddie was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Maxine Garrett. Together they raised five devoted children:

- Freddie Garrett Jr. (Somerset, NJ)

- Alan Garrett (North Brunswick, NJ)

- Hallie Towanna Garrett (Greencastle, PA)

- Lavilla Thompson (Virginia Beach, VA)

- LaTonnia Garrett (South Amboy, NJ)

He is also lovingly remembered by eleven grandchildren: Rasheem Garrett, Jamar Garrett, Vaughn Suber Jr., Julius Garrett, Matthew Suber, Shalimar Thompson, Aaron Suber, SaLeena Garrett, Tatyana Suber, Sheila Thompson, and Keyana Garrett; as well as eleven great-grandchildren. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended relatives across the country.

A Memorial Service honoring Freddie's life will be held on May 16, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park Pavilion located at 201 John T. O'Leary Blvd., South Amboy, New Jersey.

Freddie B. Garrett Sr.'s life was one of resilience, integrity, devotion to family, and quiet strength. His legacy will live on through the generations he helped shape and inspire. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May his memory bring comfort and peace to those who loved him.