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GERALD GARRETT Obituary
Dr. Garrett was born September 21, 1940 to Kenneth and Pearl Garrett in Mt. Vernon, WA.
In 1958 Jerry graduated from Mt. Vernon High School with honors. He excelled in football and received a scholarship to Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA. He was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and received a B.A. degree in Sociology in 1962.
Jerry went on to receive a M.A. in Sociology and a PhD. in Philosophy from Washington State University in Pullman, WA. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.
Dr. Garrett (as a young professor) taught at the University of Oregon, UCLA, University of Wisconsin (White River campus) and the University of Maryland overseas extension program and Columbia University. In 1974 he accepted a position at the University of Massachusetts/Boston where he was Chair and professor of Sociology, Director of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Studies and Coordinator of the Criminal Justice Program. He was actively involved in publishing articles in Sociology and Criminology. He co-authored several books of which two are currently used today. While studying homelessness he and his co-authors published "Responding to the Homeless" and "Manny". He also served as the President of the Homelessness and Substance Abuse National Association. He retired as Professor Emeritus and would continue for many years as a consultant in Alcohol and Substance Abuse.
In 2005 Dr. Garrett received an honorary Law Degree from Bethany College, KS for his work in criminal justice.
Jerry loved his sports: wrestling (Mt. Vernon), football (Fighting Missionaries @ Whitman College, New England Patriots and WSU Cougs), baseball (Boston Red Sox) and basketball (Boston Celtics). His favorite topic of conversation was Wazzu football with his friend Greg Pierce where they spent hours on the phone and traveled to many locations (U of Auburn, Ohio State University, University of Wisconsin, UNLV) to watch their Cougs! He attended the 2003 Rose Bowl with his partner Ben. "GO COUGS!"
He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Pearl Garrett of Mt. Vernon, WA.
He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law John & Marge Garrett of Burlington, WA. Partner: Ben Marte of Hoosick Falls, NY. Cousins: Shirley LaVine and Joan LaVine of Anacortes, WA. Nieces & Nephews: Jill Davenport & husband Jeff of Easton, WA Brenda Garrett & fiance Mike Saunders of Auburn,WA Kenneth Garrett of Missoula, MT Kim Turner & husband Daryl of Conway, WA John Heineken & wife Nealie of Burlington, WA Richard Bush of Sedro Woolley, WA. Great-nieces and nephews: Katelynn Garrett, Makenna Garrett, Anthony Heineken, Aiden Jourvel, Michael Turner, Kendal Turner. Life long friend Carol Farnsworth & her husband Jerry. In addition: Many wonderful friends and acquaintances.
Jerry will be missed by all his family, friends and colleagues for all of his support, words of encouragement and kindness he shared with all. Jerry's wishes were that any donations be made to ASPCA or a local Humane Society of your choice.
Memorial service and Celebration of Life are pending. Condolence book at wwwparkerbosmemorial.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for GERALD GARRETT
Sponsored by Your Main Man Ben.
Etta Bray
February 3, 2025
Marge.... So sorry to hear your sad news. I think of Gerry so often. He is the reason we go to Cape Cod every year. I met him up there once to sprinkle my cousin, Carolsue, ashes. Stayed with him in Boston townhouse. So many great memories. Take care, Etta
Marge Garrett
February 2, 2025
Your brother has joined you on November 16th 2024. John's birthday was just yesterday Feburday 1st. He would have been 73. You both passed at the age of 72, how could that be? You are together now all of you Dad, Mom, and brothers. I and miss you all. Jerry take care of my sweetheart. Like you always did in life do in death.
Etta Bray
June 22, 2024
Think of you often. Our love of Cape Cod is because of you. We would rent the cottage next to your´s in Truro every summer when my cousin, Dr. Carolsue Holland would visit you. When Carol passed, you met me on CC as we scattered her ashes together. We have stayed with you in your Boston residence and always had great times together. In February 2013, you were to sit at my table at my daughter´s wedding.....but sadly your chair was left empty....it wasn´t til awhile later that we found out you had passed. You will never be forgotten....miss you and your stories.
Werner H. Breuer
June 21, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
I met Gerry while he was teaching US-Militaries at Wiesbaden,Germany. In Oct. 1979 he became my Best Man (Trauzeuge) at my wedding. In the 1980th my family (wife and 2 children) visited him at his house in Bosten, Mass. and stayed for a wile in his Chalet at Cape Cod. After he retired we lost contact. Only now, after the death of my wife, I investigated and learned that he passed away already in 2013.
I still remember him as a generous friend.
Marge Garrett
February 2, 2024
Jerry, we remember you with love & respect. You left us way too soon . There is not a day that goes by that there isn't something that reminds me of you. You had a way about yourself.
Cassandra J Dillard
February 12, 2023
You were my hero when at 37, I was struggling to complete an internship. You fought for me. You fought for my integrity when I didn't know how to fight for myself. You are my hero now at 72 years old. From time to time, I think of you always with love and respect, especially on our birthday and I am so full of gratitude.
Marge Garrett
February 3, 2022
Jerry, Mount Vernon high school is remodeling there auditorium (it's 2022) the school is having a donation to be able to buy a seat, so we bought a seat with your name on it. They will have a ceremony when complete. Miss and love you live on always
Tom
September 16, 2020
You were supposed to be teaching us about substance abuse treatment, which you did, but you often spent the first 40 mins of class teaching life lessons such as how to write a resume and announcing job openings, and how to interview for the position, skills that are rarely taught in college. I took two of your classes and you were great!
TL
Carolyn DeBerry
July 10, 2018
I conducted a search for my favorite Umass professors, and I was saddened to find you here. I trusted you from the moment I met you in Bremerhaven Germany. There, I was in the US military, taking graduate classes offered through the Boston University Constituency program. You were my instructor. I remember trusting you even more, when upon discharge, I followed your guidance and completed my graduate studies at Umass Boston, where you were then the Departmental chair. I am honored to have known you; to have been taught and academically advised by you; and I am blessed to have been at a space in time when our lives would intersect. You, sir, were an amazing human being.
Johnna Tipton
September 22, 2017
Your very great presence and light are greatly missed. I could surely use your wisdom and thoughts about the world today. Love and miss you. ~Johnna
Ben
September 21, 2017
Happy 77th Birthday!!! The neighborhood has a new crop of pups that would make you happy. Still miss you lots!
CRAIG DOUGHERTY
February 10, 2017
DETAILS ARE SHORT AFTER SO MANY YEARS, I CANNOT REASON WHY HIS NAME POPPED INTO MY HEAD, I REMEMBER HIM BEING LANKY, A BIT THINNER, HE STILL HAD HAIR LONG ON BOTH SIDES, THE BEARD MUCH LIGHTER...HE WAS A GUEST PROFESSOR FOR THE WSU CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEPT FOR AN ANNUAL PERIOD AND I TOOK SUCCESSIVE CLASSES FROM HIM OVER THAT PERIOD. ENJOYED HIS STORIES OF WALPOLE PRISON AND UMASS...HE WAS ENGAGING AS THE INSTRUCTOR, YOU DID NOT "WONDER OFF" IN HIS CLASS, TOO MUCH INFORMATION COMING AT YOU FROM ALL CORNERS. ONE OF HIS STUDENTS AND MY STUDY MATE JUST PASSED THIS YEAR, GEORGE YARNO. DID HE STILL WEAR THE COWBOY BOOTS ? LAST TIME I SAW HIM, WAS AT NORDSTROMS IN DOWNTOWN SEATTLE IN THE SUMMER OF THE YEAR HE TAUGHT, COWBOY BOOTS, ET AL. FEW PROFESSORS I REMEMBER SO VIVIDLY FROM COLLEGE, PROF GARRETT WAS AT THE TOP OF THE LIST.....SAD TO FIND THIS MEMORIAL IN MY SEARCH. > FOR ALL. CRAIG DOUGHERTY, OAK HARBOR .... WSU CRMJ CLASS OF '78
Ben
January 14, 2017
Another year has passed ... life goes on ... the world is on a brink of what could be a historic period... you would find it interesting! Miss you lots!
Ben Marte
September 21, 2016
A candle lit for your birthday. Bet you're having fun with the the babe dogs and cats. Best wishes. Miss you lots! You're Main Man.
Chuck
August 16, 2016
So so sorry to stumble across this while casually searching your name today.
We lost touch over the years but I hope you always remembered our chats, dating back 20+ years now.
They meant so much to me, at a very vulnerable time.
Your influence on who I've become, who I've grown to be, will always be with me, my friend.
I can't believe I'll never hear one of your colorful stories again.
You will be missed "R."
January 15, 2016
Your chair was empty at the mother of the bride's table, right next to me. It will be three years since my daughter got married and each anniversary is a memory of you. We didn't know that you had passed and wanted so much to see your butt in that chair. You are missed and will always be specially remembered on their anniversary.
January 14, 2016
Three years since I last was with you in body, spirit, and mind. Not one day goes by,when thoughts of you permeate my consciousness. Life does go on, some days happy, some days not. Miss you, Mister, and Toto. Lily says "Hi, too." Watch over us, will you? -- Bey
September 21, 2015
Thinking of you on your birth anniversary. This time around you'd be with your friends in Washington enjoying the waning days of summer before you fly back to Boston. Not a day goes by ... hope you and the dogs are having fun wherever you are. Happy Birthday! ... Kinsky
March 24, 2015
Gerry Garrett was my friend, teacher, and mentor. He was on my dissertation despite being terribly busy with other projects. He also got me involved with INCASE where I presented my first paper at a conference. He came and visited me in Newport, RI once or twice and had a great time. I will miss you my friend. Consummate sociologist, sports nut and a truly fine human being. Thank you for being in my life. Gerry Willis
Greg and Beth Pierce
January 17, 2015
Jerry, another day without seeing you is a heartache. However, each day is a day with sunshine when we get to think of you. You'd still be going crazy after the Mighty Cougs beat the Orygun Ducks in overtime - 108-99. We would have been talking!!!! Go Cougs
Morris
January 16, 2015
Gerry Garrett generously brought his talent and incredible energy into the Norfolk Prison Colony in Massachusetts and shared without restraint. It is impossible to gauge how many lives were changed and set straight by his example and ability to make humanity a common-sense solution to societies ills. While he is truly missed, his sparkling influence will continue, his energy remains and that drive to help those in need has to live on, eternally.
January 15, 2015
Just talking about the "great G" recently as cousin Carolsue always referred to Gerry. I miss him and think of him often. So glad we shared so many summers in Cape Cod. Xoxo
January 14, 2015
Two years and it seems like just yesterday we lost you. We think of you always. Love you
Peter Myers
January 14, 2015
I was a friend and colleague of Gerry through the addictions faculty INCASE which he was President of in the mid 1990s. He did a marvelous job. I also was a coauthor of a book that we had a hard time getting published. He visited me in Brooklyn shortly before he vanished. I and his friends could not figure out what happened to him. A year later he had an accident not far from here and passed away, which I saw in the local papers. We never fathomed why he disappeared during that year. We wished he had remained with that book. More so, we missed his presence and friendship and energy. A terrible mystery.
Barbara Lynch
January 13, 2015
Oh my.......I searched for Gerry Garrett to see what he was up to since I have missed my mentor in my studies of homelessness.......He was a great professor, mentor and advisor while I was at UMass......unbelieveable!!! Thought He would be the one person who would never die!!
Hilding Ohrstrom
October 31, 2014
Dr. Garrett was an open and caring individual who was invested in helping individuals and organizations change. I am very grateful for the opportunity he provided me with, as well as all that he contributed to his fields of expertise.
Former Prisoner
June 3, 2014
While at UMass Boston,Dr.Garrett spent a great deal of his own time teaching prisoners at the Norfolk Correctional Institution near Boston. His sincere commitment to each individual, incredible sense of humor, knowledge and respect for the subject of Sociology and experience lead many to rethink their life and know their true worth. I was just one of many. I'll never forget his stylish swagger and knowing smile. Respect and passionate caring are his legacy.
John Steinhilber
May 21, 2014
I lost touch with Gerry about the time he retired from the University of Massachusetts, but never stopped wondering how he was and what he was up to. So, it is with great sadness I learned of his passing. I was a student of Gerry's at UMASS and I selected him as my advisor. He was a wonderful mentor, professor, and person. We stayed in touch for several years after I graduated and he even came to Miami and we went out to an real authentic mexican restaurant, which he really enjoyed. Gerry I will always remember the great 80's Celtics and Red Sox games we attended together. God bless
January 9, 2014
My winter coat belonged to Carol and I wear it everyday in the winter. She gave it to me on a trip to my home with "The Great G" as she called him. I look at my daughter's wedding pictures and see the empty chair at my table, that was supposed to be Gerry's chair, but as I found out, he had passed away. There are so many reminders about Gerry, and the summers at Cape Cod with Carol and Gerry. I will never forget him. I miss his phone calls and reporting his orthopedic issues (I am a PT). I still can't believe it. Missing him....Etta
Marge Garrett
January 8, 2014
I can't believe that it has been almost a year since Jerry left us. I still expect a call to talk about all the football games going on right now. He was the best friend and Brother in law I could have asked for. I miss you everyday.
January 7, 2014
Jerry was a favorite professor when he spent a semester at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and his colleagues and students still speak of his enjoyment and sense of fun. He loved being in Alaska and we loved having him here. We will miss him.
Dr. Andrea (Helms) Backlund, Fairbanks, AK
January 6, 2014
Jerry was not only one of my oldest and best friends from the old University of Maryland days overseas. We kept in contact for the past 40 years and when I didn't get his usual Christmas card this year (which I always looked forward to), I knew something was wrong. He was not only a great mentor to me as a professor, but he was a great friend who I always enjoyed chatting with. I will miss him terribly.
Rus Smith
December 10, 2013
I sadly found out about Gerry's passing just yesterday and have spent the better part of today remembering just how much he helped me through a very difficult time in my life about 20 years ago... by chance I came across his obituary and just had to say something here......graditude...love....laughter.....and kindness...all words that express what will always be in my heart when remembering Gerry...God speed my dear friend.....until we meet again one day.
Sheila Guneris Mount Vernon,WA
March 26, 2013
At this date, I still miss my dear friend. We attended Grade school, together and then High School.We saw each at least every summer as we had a (what we called) )a mini reunion. We could catch up on what had been going on in our life since we last saw each other.Jerry was a wonderful friend and I miss his emails and all the interesting subjects he would email me about. We kept in touch weekly if not daily.I will always think of all the fun times we had since we have been in contact.I miss you Gerald R. Garrett and will until we meet again.
March 2, 2013
Will miss you always.The memories will always be there. You were the best.
Your childhood friend always
Carol & Jerry Farnsworth.
Gary Norman
March 1, 2013
The Professor was a good friend and he is missed.
Raleigh and Carol Curtis
February 27, 2013
This came as a real shocker to Carol and me. We had received a nice, bright holiday note from Jerry. He will be missed.
Sharon & Tom Hudgins
February 21, 2013
We knew Jerry from our days together as University of Maryland professors together in Europe, back in the 1970s, and had kept in touch ever since. We always enjoyed his interesting, thoughtful, and personal handwritten Christmas letters. He will be greatly missed not only by his friends, but also by the many people (including students) and animals that he helped throughout his life.
Richard Bray
February 14, 2013
The great G. he was great and a great competitor especially rooting for the Red Sox against my Yankees or the Pats against the Giants . Thinking of him always made me smile and always will. He was a credit to his field and a credit to anyone who knew him. I will miss him so much
February 13, 2013
I have been trying to reach Gerry for a few weeks as he was planning on attending my daughter's wedding this past Sunday. When he didn't show up, I had a terrible feeling in the pit of my stomach and today I found his obituary online. We had been friends for many years via my cousin Carolsue Holland. We spent wonderful times in Cape Cod as my daughter and I rented the cottage next to his for many years. I am so deeply saddened to hear the news. If there is anyway I could communicate with his family friends, please reach out to me at [email protected]. My thoughts and prayers are with Gerry's family and friends. May he rest in peace, he will be sorely missed.
Lee Sansum
February 10, 2013
Jerry was one of my oldest and most loyal friends. He saw me through some very tough times. I will be forever grateful. He will be greatly missed by all of us.
June 2010 cookout
February 10, 2013
February 10, 2013
February 10, 2013
Greg/Beth Pierce
February 7, 2013
Can you believe it? "A day without Wal-Mart is a day without sunshine", "Do you know who you're talking to?" You never asked us if it was alright to die. So,you haven't! At least in our hearts. We'll see you at the Wazzu/Stanford game in Seattle - love you, Greg and Beth
Denise Hilker
February 7, 2013
Jerry was like another Uncle to our family. He made a point of coming for our weddings and was there when we lost our own family members. We loved listening to the stories of his travels all over the world and looked forward to his visits to Washington. He is greatly missed.
February 7, 2013
February 7, 2013
Sally Simpson
February 4, 2013
Gerry was an inspiration to his students and a mentor to junior faculty. He was one of my most memorable teachers and a wonderful generous friend.
January 27, 2013
We're going to miss you, Jerry. The reunions won't be the same without you. Michael and Susan Custance, Mount Vernon
don and kelly farnsworth
January 27, 2013
Jerry will be missed very much by our family i could sit and listen to his stories for hours and he had many to tell. Jerry was not related to us but he was so close to our family we thought of him as family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Mari Pierce
January 25, 2013
Words cannot express my love for Jerry. He was a friend, mentor and second father-figure. His impact on my life will never fade. I love you, Jerry.
Nealie & John Heineken
January 25, 2013
Uncle Gerry you were the description of the word LIFE!! always on the go people to see places to go. You meant every word that ever came out of your mouth. We will miss every big, little, and in between thing about you. Thank you for your love!!And allowing us to love you, we are honored!!!
Always and Forever, Nealie, John and your two sporty guy's Aiden and Anthony
Joseph Bebo
January 21, 2013
Gerry was a mentor and a friend. He was extremely witty and full of life. I have never known anyone as caring for those who are underprivelaged as Gerry. He opened a world to me that I never knew existed through his intelligence, mentorship, and constant vitality. I cannot put into words the loss I feel at his passing. He was one of the best human beings I ever met. A void will exist in the world without him.
John Callahan
January 20, 2013
Rest in peace old friend
Janet Grimes
January 19, 2013
Jerry was one of a kind--always full of surprises and witty remarks. I've known him since grade school and got to know him better in high school. Once when there was a slumber party (all girls, of course) at my house he called and got invited over on the condition that he bring a pizza--which he did. I'll miss his occasional e-mails, his birthday party, and most of all, himself.
Steve Raab
January 19, 2013
Jerry, You were a wonderful person, it was a gift to know you even for a short time. My prayers are with you and your partner Ben.
January 19, 2013
All that knew Jerry loved his humor, his knowledge on most any subject and will be missed. My love to John and Marge, Ben and his many friends in WA. and MA. and New York.Rest in Peace my friend.
Sheila Gunerius Mount Vernon, WA
Johnna Tipton
January 19, 2013
Great G....there will never be another like you, I love you...
Chris and Sarah Fleming
January 19, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with Ben and Jerry's family. He will be forever missed by his friends in Hoosick Falls.
Carol Anderson
January 19, 2013
Rest in peace, dear friend.
January 19, 2013
jan. 18 you were a very special man and friend. you will be missed. love yuh irma.
Scott , Sarah & family McCart
January 18, 2013
Jerry will forever be missed by his friends from Hoosick Falls, when we first met Jerry he quickly shared that he was a huge Red Sox fan....and the rest is history. Many stories & a lot of memorabilia that will always be remembered of him. Our thoughts, love & prayers are with Ben & Jerry's family.
Jerry, John and Marge Garrett at my brother Don's wedding
Darlene Lyle
January 17, 2013
Jerry You will be so missed by our family. You were like an uncle to us. You came to our weddings,you gave us advice and listened to us. You had a love for sports,you were kind, generous, always had a funny story. Thank you for being part of our lives.
Darlene and Steve Lyle
Jerry, Marge and John at my brother's wedding in 2005
Darlene Lyle
January 17, 2013
Jerry you are missed by our whole family. We are going to miss your stories about Iz and your funny travel stories. We will miss your visits out to Washington.You were there for our weddings and other family events. Mom misses you so much and we miss you also. Thank you for always listening to us and for your help over the years. Our lives are better for knowing you. You were smart, funny, talented,lover of sports, Kind and loving We loved you like an uncle.Rip
Peter Myers
January 17, 2013
Gerry was one of the first presidents of the International Coalition for Addiction Studies Education. He was a fantastic leader in higher education, scholar, mentor, and friend.
Patrick Faiella
January 17, 2013
Gerry Garrett was my friend and mentor. I owe much of who I am today to his tutelage and guidance. I was looking forward to Gerry visiting the Boston area in the next week or so. I am deeply saddened by his passing. We in the world of Criminal Justice education and Addiction Studies have lost a true giant in our field. Rest in peace my friend.
Denise Hilker
January 17, 2013
Jerry was like another Uncle to myself and my 3 siblings, being lifelong friends with our mom. We will miss his hilarious stories of his travels around the world and miss his visits with our family here in Washington state.
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