James Kenneth Garvin

James Kenneth Garvin obituary, Philadelphia, PA

James Kenneth Garvin

James Garvin Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Terry Funeral Home, Inc. - Philadelphia on Oct. 3, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

James Kenneth Garvin was born on July 11, 1939 in Gastonia North Carolina to the late Lillian
and Theodore Garvin. He was the fourth of nine children. James departed this life on April 7th,
2025 at the Penn Presbyterian Hospital surrounded by his family,
James graduated from Highland School in Gastonia North Carolina. He moved to Philadelphia
in 1959. James later married the love of his life Lorraine on July 13, 1963. To this union six
children were born. James first job in Philadelphia was at Horn and Hardart on South 13th Street. He later went to
work for the City of Philadelphia for thirty years as a heavy duty compact operator (Sanitation
Dept.) he retired in August 1994. After retirement with the City he worked at Peter Pan bus
company and Hertz Car Rental. He was a dedicated hard working man. Although he was not a
member of a church he would fellowship at Zion Apostolic Temple and Mt. Moriah Apostolic
Church.James was a quite laid back man who didn't like to say much but when he did he meant what he
said and always gave good advice. He loved taking trips to Gastonia North Carolina to visit
family. James enjoyed having a good time with his family, especially with his grandchildren and
great grandchildren. He loved to watch old western TV shows, sports and wrestling. James
was the kind of man who loved to dress sharp and always had to wear a hat to match every
outfit. He also loved Gospel music, especially gospel quartet singing.
James was preceded in death by his daughter Charlotte. James leaves to cherish his loving
memory wife of 62 years Lorraine Ruby Garvin. Two Daughters, Regina (Alonzo), Alesia, Three
Sons, Kenneth, Dartanuell and Derrick. Fourteen Grandchildren, Thirty Great Grandchildren,
and Two Great Great Grandchildren. One Sister, Emily Gladly. A host of Nieces, Nephews,
Cousins and Friends.
Lovingly Submitted The Family
To send a flower arrangement in memory of
James Kenneth Garvin, please click here to visit our sympathy store.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of James Kenneth Garvin, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor James Garvin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign James Garvin's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?