Eric Maxwell Garrett was born November 10, 1959, to Alton Thomas Garrett and Edna Fay Garrett (nee Gilmer) in Miami, FL. He flew west to his eternal home with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 26, 2022. Eric fought a long battle with cancer with an unbelievably strong and courageous attitude. He always gave credit to his God for every day given to him and never gave up hope for a better tomorrow. He recently celebrated his 63rd birthday at the Crystal River Fly-in with many friends and family. Eric and his wife, Shannon Higgs Garrett lived in the home they built at Flying Palomino Ranch Airpark in Fruitland Park, FL.
Eric leaves behind the love of his life, Shannon, his beloved children, Emily, and Maxwell (Karey), stepchildren Austin Hungate (Alejandra) and Madison Duke (Dillon) and 5 grandchildren. Eric is also survived by his sister, Lisa Sewell (Boyd), brother, Richard Garrett (Terri) and his faithful dog, Sierra. Eric was predeceased by his parents.
One of Eric’s many passions was aviation, probably because his father owned an airplane before he owned his first car. In 1976, while in high school, Eric started flying with hopes of making it his career. His weak left eye limited that dream, but he has owned numerous airplanes, built countless hours, and made many aviator friends during his life. He was very active in the International Cessna 180/185 Club, serving as a director for many years, organizing a myriad of fly-ins and hosting the club’s annual convention in Chattanooga, TN in 2021.
Eric also enjoyed boating, fishing, cycling, swimming, running, and spending time with Shannon and family and friends at their cabin in Rainelle, WV.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Future Aviator Scholarship fund of the International 180/185 Club, PO Box 210, Oneco, CT 06373 www.skywagons.org or to the Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF), Rainelle Bath House Project, 1711 W. College St., Bozeman, MT 59715 www.theraf.org
A celebration of life will be held on January 14, 2023, at Flying Palomino Ranch Airpark in Fruitland Park, FL.
Cards and notes of condolence can be sent to Shannon at 900 Sugarfoot Lane, Fruitland Park, FL 34731.
Below is a note sent to a friend on November 6 of this year and provides a glimpse into who Eric was:
The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of pain,
Thanking God during a trial,
Trusting Him when tempted,
Surrendering while suffering, and
Loving Him when He seems distant.
