Jerald Thomas "Tom" Garnett

Jerald Thomas (Tom) Garnett passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Daviess County Nursing Home and Rehab. Tom was born September 5, 1950, in Moberly, Missouri. His parents, Don and Emogene (Bittiker) Garnett proceeded him in death. Tom was born on his mother's birthday!
Tom attended school in Madison, Missouri. He enjoyed the small town life. Fishing with his grandfather, wiffle ball games, and visiting the local pool hall with friends filled his early days. During high school, Tom had a very successful basketball career. He and his cousin, Paul Garnett, were the quite the duo on the court. Tom's basketball talent took him to Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri, where he played under the late Coach Larry Holley. Tom graduated from CMC in May, 1971.
Tom and Nancy (Ragsdale) Garnett were united in marriage on August 14, 1971, in Moberly, Missouri. His first teaching and coaching job took them to Chilhowee, Missouri. While employed in Chilhowee, Tom obtained a Masters of Education from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri.
In 1976, Tom and Nancy moved to Jamesport, Missouri. Tom was hired as the Tri-County High School Principal and Coach. While at Tri-County, Tom made many lifelong friends, with many being former students! It was while living in Jamesport that Tom and Nancy became parents to their baby girl, Holly Brianne.
In 1981, Tom was hired by Shelter Insurance as the agent for Gallatin, Missouri. It was a big career change, but it was a position that Tom held for 44 years. He took a lot of pride in his work and tried to provide his customers with the best service possible.
Shortly after the move to Gallatin, Tom and Nancy became parents to their son, Brice Patrick on September 6, 1983. It was with this move, that Tom became very active in school and community activities. He served as Gallatin Rotary Club President, a member of the Gallatin R-V School Board and a longtime member of the Gallatin Men's Club. Tom also served on the committee responsible for the installation of grass greens at the Daviess County Country Club. Tom spent many days at the golf course, enjoying time with friends. Tom's friendships were something he cherished very much throughout his life. He was always ready for a party or get together, and always had a new joke to tell. He enjoyed having a good time, no matter where he was!
Tom also served as the Gallatin Junior High boys basketball coach for several years. In addition, he coached the Gallatin High boys golf team and took his teams to several state championships. During his time as a golf coach, three State Champion flags were hung in the Gallatin gym. Tom was so very proud of these accomplishments, and it was made even more special that he was able to share the state championships with his son, Brice and his teammates.
In addition to his friends, Tom's greatest joy in life was his children, Holly (Travis) and Brice (Suzan), and his three very special grandchildren, Kai, Cru, and Milly. He was so very proud of their many accomplishments. Even in his final days, he still had a great interest in their daily activities.
Tom is survived by his wife of 54 years, Nancy, his children Holly (Travis) Flandermeyer of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Brice (Suzan) Garnett of Valdosta, Georgia, his grandchildren Kai and Cru Flandermeyer and Milly Prince, his sister Claudia McCleary of Paris, Missouri, and many special nieces, nephews, and friends.
Funeral Services will be held at First Christian Church in Gallatin, Missouri, on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 2:30 PM. Visitation will precede the service from 12:00-2:30 PM.

Friends may call from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (family not present), Sunday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Gallatin Fire Protection District and/or Daviess County Country Club.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin, Missouri.

Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com