Wayne Ray Garrett, age 83, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Baptist Hospital of Pensacola. He passed peacefully surrounded by immediate family members. He was born February 2, 1941, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida to Leamon and Ethel Garrett. Wayne was retired from a career in wholesale food services. During his career, he enjoyed helping the local community where he served as a volunteer in the Midway Volunteer Fire Department in the 80’s and 90’s, even serving a period of time as the Fire Chief, followed by sitting on the Board of Fire Commissioners. He truly enjoyed being a member of the fire department where he had the opportunity to help many families within the community. He also volunteered with the Santa Rosa County Search and Rescue, serving as area coordinator. In retirement, he moved back to his family’s property north of DeFuniak Springs where he was raised. He spent many hours sitting in his swing watching deer and turkeys passing through the yard. He was an avid fan of Nascar racing. He loved to watch old western movies and could listen to old gospel songs all day long.
Wayne was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Sylvia; and his son, Wayne Ray.
He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Delp (Richard); two granddaughters, Caityln Percell (Clayton) and Emily Ferguson (Ryan); and three great-grandchildren, Justin Cooper, Sage Cooper and Wesley Ferguson.
A time of visitation will be held Thursday, March 28, 2024 in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433, from 5:00 p.m. until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 29, 2024 at Davis-Watkins Funeral Home beginning at 10:00 a.m. with Dr. Mark Rathel officiating. Committal services will follow at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery.
Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home.