Keith McGarity

Keith McGarity, age 69, of McDonough, Georgia passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, under the care of Brightmoor Hospice in Griffin, Georgia. He was born in Fulton County, the only son of the late John Alvin McGarity and Kathy Patterson McGarity.
It is with full hearts that we celebrate the life of Keith, who was born with Down Syndrome and lived 69 beautiful years filled with joy, music, and love. Though he was non-verbal, he spoke volumes through his spirit, his laughter, and the way he entertained every room he entered.
From the time he was a little boy, music was one of his greatest joys. He loved sitting beside his mother as she played the piano, especially when she played his favorite tune, "Elephant Walk." He made music of his own as well, tapping out all kinds of sounds on his drum set or shaking a tambourine. His life was a reminder that happiness doesn't need words, it can be felt, shared, and heard in the simplest of sounds.
Although he spoke only a few cherished words: "mama," "dadeee," and "veeeee" (his beloved caretaker), his presence conveyed everything that mattered. He enjoyed being outdoors, and anyone who knew him knew that if he had maneuvered his wheelchair toward the door, it meant the outside was calling and he was ready to go. When he was younger and steady on his feet, camp was one of his greatest adventures. He delighted in helping others, often pushing his friends' wheelchairs around with a proud and determined smile. As he aged, he lost the ability to walk, but his spirit remained just as strong as always.
Food was one of his purest joys, every meal was his beat meal. He loved everything on his plate and was just as excited to try anything on yours. Sharing food was his love language, and those moments around the table were some of his happiest.
After the passing of his devoted mother, he found his home at Southern Community Living in McDonough, where he could still be close to his father. It was a place where he was surrounded by compassionate caregivers and friends who loved him dearly. They provided him with comfort, connection, and community in the later chapters of his life.
He is survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly. A service to honor Keith's life will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors. Interment will follow the service at Resthaven Gardens of Memory in Atlanta, Georgia. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com. Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors, 770-914-1414.