Dr. Terence E. Garner
September 26, 2017
Date of Service: October 8, 2017
Interment Location: Masonic Section
Dr. Terence Garner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away and went to his Heavenly rest on September 26, 2017 at the age of 77. He genuinely enjoyed people, was thoroughly devoted to his family, and was passionate about educating the next generations.
Terence was a tireless educator. He began his career upon graduating college from East Tennessee State University in 1962. His first job was with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, where he spent his entire career. During the course of his career he achieved five degrees, culminating in a doctorate from Rutgers University. Throughout his time he served over 34 years as teacher, guidance counselor, and assistant principal.
He was a devoted educational leader, working as principal of Avocado Elementary in Homestead, then of Arvida Junior High in Kendall, before eventually becoming Assistant Superintendent of Personnel for Miami-Dade County Public Schools. He truly loved recruiting teachers and helped to found the Future Educators clubs nationwide. He took great pride in the thousands of teachers he and his office hired over many years. They continue to grace our school systems today.
Terence is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elizabeth Garner, his daughter, Anne Garner Harder, and his son Eric Garner, as well as four grandchildren: Emily Garner, Austin Harder, Allison Garner, and Eric Brandon Garner.
As his family, we feel blessed to have had the best example we could ever wish for in a husband and a father. Dad loved life, and he lived it illustrating work ethic, eternal optimism, and unwavering loyalty — but most of all love. We know he can see and move and talk freely now. We know he is running and laughing with God.
The Celebration of the Life of Terence Garner will be handled by Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton, TN. There will be a graveside service at Happy Valley Memorial Park in Johnson City, TN. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the Terence Garner Bench/Scholarship on www.depositagift.com
“But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.”
