Jackie Ray Garland

Jackie Ray Garland, Age 70, of Adrian, Michigan passed away on September 18, 2023, at Promedica Hospital in Toledo, Ohio with his daughters by his side.  Jackie was born in Adrian, Michigan to John and Betty Jean (Cochran) Garland. on October 20, 1952. He attended Adrian High School. Shortly after high school he enlisted in the United States Army, serving 2 years during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1974. Jackie then went to work as a lineman for the telephone company and traveled the United States laying phone lines. He eventually settled in as a groundskeeper for Siena Heights University and Boysville of Michigan.  During his free time Jackie enjoyed anything to do with the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing. Jackie was also an avid pool player over the years winning numerous trophies, plaques and awards. But his true passion was seen when he picked up the guitar. Jackie played in several bands throughout his life sharing his love for music with tons of family, friends and fellow music lovers. But the most important thing to him was his family. He was extremely proud of his children and bragged to anyone who would listen about being a PawPaw (grandpa) to his grandchildren. Jackie used to belong to the United Independent Partiers, a motorcycle club and was currently a member of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 1584, American Legion Post 97, Lenawee County 40et8 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Adrian Post (his home away from home). He was proud to be involved in the local chapters and to help in any way he could. Anyone that was fortunate enough to know Jackie, knew he was the most giving man we knew.  Jackie is survived by brother Joseph (Angie) Garland, brother Jimmy (Cookie) Garland, his children Jackie (Kim) Garland, Jacqueline Cavazos, Jodi (John) Klama, his grandchildren Eva Garland, Leopold Garland, Priscilla (Sean) Garcia, Martin Cavazos Jr., Dayton (Bre'Anna) Klama. Ethan Klama. Levi Klama, Tyler Thompson, Nathan Crabtree, 7 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and tons of close friends that were like family to him. He is also survived by a special companion, Carol Thorton.  Jackie was proceeded in death by his first wife, Rose Anderson, his forever wife Sharon, his parents, step-father Arlis "Dit" Jones, daughter Jolene Crabtree, son in law, Martin Cavazos Sr and twin brother Johnny Garland.  Family and friends are welcome to attend a full military graveside service for Jackie on October 14, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Palmyra Cemetary, 5963 US 223, Palmyra Michigan. Immediately following the graveside service there will be a celebration of life at the Adrian Eagles located at 2522 W. Beecher Rd. Adrian, MI 49221 until 6:00 PM.  Memorial donations may be made to the family for final expenses. Arrangements entrusted to J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home, Adrian, MI.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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