Inez Garner

GAINESVILLE – Inez Thurmond Garner, 81, died Thursday, June 4, 2009, at Landmark Hospital in Athens, following an extended illness.

Born on August 16, 1927, in Jackson County, she was the daughter of the late James and Rosa Bowles Thurmond. She was a Christian, and a member of Westside Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday School Teacher and was active in the senior ministry. She was employed by the former Shirley’s and Strong Brothers at Lakeshore Mall, and was a seamstress for many years in the community. Mrs. Garner was preceded in death by sisters, Josie Thurmond and Runelle Luther; brother, James Thurmond Jr.; and an infant son, Howell S. Garner.

Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Harold Garner, Gainesville; daughters, Cynthia Garner Millwood and Regina Garner Blackwell, both of Gainesville; grandchildren, Caleb, Annelise, Clif, Mark, Bryson and Grace Millwood, all of Gainesville; sisters, Latrelle Gilleland, Buford, Eddie Mae Hogan, Jefferson, Willie C. Thurmond and Gayress Spain, both of Gainesville; and a host of nieces, nephews and other family.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, June 7, at 3:30 p.m. at Westside Baptist Church with the Revs. J.L. Yopp, Jr. and Mike Taylor officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, June 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, June 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville, is in charge of arrangements.