George Garland

George Garland Jr. was born on January 25, 1951, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Johnanna Garland and George Garland Sr. He was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System and graduated from Frankford High School in 1968.

George was drafted into the United States Army in 1971 and honorably completed his military service in 1973. Shortly thereafter, he began his career with the United States Postal Service, where he faithfully served as a letter carrier for 33 years before retiring in 2008.

On May 25, 1973, George married Denise Johns. From this union, two children were born: Katrina Denise and George Garland III.

During his high school and early adult years, George loved playing softball. He was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles fan, a passion he carried since the early 1960s. As George would often say, "I'm a fan, win or lose."

As a youth, George attended St. Thomas United Methodist Church and officially joined the church in the 1990s. He served faithfully as a lay servant, lay minister, lay leader, Bible study teacher, and in other capacities.

In 1995, George met Angela Smith, and they were married on September 14, 1996. In 1998, they relocated to Delaware, where they built their home. In November 2001, they were blessed with a daughter, Jordanna.

In 2002, George joined St. Daniel's United Methodist Church under the pastorate of Reverend Herbert W. Coe. He served as a lay speaker at the 8:00 a.m. services, chairperson of United Methodist Men, trustee, men's choir member, and happily parked cars during Union Stadium events.

George loved traveling, sports, and spending time with his family. Becoming "PopPop" brought him immense pride, and he ensured that Jordanna attended all school and extracurricular activities.

George was preceded in death by his parents, George Garland Sr. and Johnanna Garland.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Angela Carla Garland; children Katrina Denise Leaks (Troy), George Garland III, and Jordanna Garland; grandchildren Troy LeJon Leaks Jr., Kenadie Aleyah Leaks, and Skylar Knoelle Rebecca Leaks; siblings Grace A. Patterson, Carolyn Carney, Mitchell Garland, Darlene Johns, Jonnie Carney (Jerome), David Garland (Emelyn), and Brian Garland (Angelia); goddaughter Kisha Thomas; mother-in-law Edith Smith; father-in-law Joseph Smith (Albertha); sister-in-law Antoinette Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, including a special friendship with Lee Horton.