George Wesley Garrett

George Wesley Garrett, a dedicated educator and beloved family man, passed away on November 10, 2025, in Orland Park, Illinois, after a long illness, surrounded by loving family. Born on June 26, 1937, in Newellton, Louisiana, George lived a life marked by academic achievement and a deep commitment to the field of education.

George was highly regarded in his professional life as a Professor in the Education Department at Governors State University in University Park, Illinois. His contributions to academia were notable, and he was a proud member of Phi Beta Kappa, an honor society that highlights excellence in liberal arts and sciences.

His educational journey began at Waldron High School in Waldron, Arkansas, leading him to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Subsequently, he pursued advanced degrees, obtaining both his Masters and Doctorate in Education from East Texas A&M University in Hunt County, Texas. Additionally, George obtained a Pastoral Ministries Degree from Southwestern Assemblies of God College in Waxahachie, Texas, reflecting his multifaceted interests, dedication to personal growth and deep faith in the written Word of God.

George is remembered as a beloved father to LaDonna (the late Russell) Mills and Zenobie Susanne Garrett, and as a step-father to Ann Harmon, Carl Gustke, and John Gustke. His legacy continues through his loving grandchildren, Rebekah (Jonathan) McKnight, Rachel (Michael) Rushing, Reagan Mills, and Lindsey (Isaac) Pinones. He also was loved by four adoring great grandchildren, Zoey, Zayliegh-Lynn, Zion, and Adrian. George cherished his siblings, Pat Patterson, Jerry Garrett, and Rita Metcalf.

In his personal life, George's love extended to his late wives, Mary Gustke, Betty White, and Doris Davenport, as well as to his deceased sister, Helen Wilson, and brother, Gary Garrett, who will forever hold a place in the hearts of his family.

A Funeral Service will be held on November 17, 2025, at Christ Lutheran Church, located at 14700 S 94th Ave, Orland Park, Illinois, starting at 10:00 AM. Following the service, a Graveside Service will take place at Christ Lutheran Cemetery, located at 14700 82nd Ave, Orland Park, Illinois.

George Wesley Garrett leaves behind a lasting impact on both his family and the countless students whose lives he touched throughout his esteemed teaching career. His unwavering dedication to education and his deep love for his family will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests memorials to the East Texas A&M University Foundation Memorial - George W Garrett Endowment for Educational Leadership, P.O. Box 3425, Commerce, TX 75429 (www.etamu.edu/give).