James Garnett Obituary

James Garnett was born in Middleboro, Massachusetts on April 7, 1931 to the late Forrest Garnett and Ruth (Bliss) Garnett. The Garnett family lived in Hanson on the shores of West Monponsett Lake. Jim had 4 half-brothers; Kenneth, Lloyd, Leonard, and Walter and a half-sister, Marjorie. Jim leaves behind his daughters Wendy and Julie, son James, stepson Jay Thetonia and his wife Ruth, stepson Paul and his wife Lynn, stepdaughter Barbara and her husband Shawn, step grandchildren: Brandon, Kashmir, Lacey, Brook, Lily and step great grandson Michael, and many nieces and nephews.

Jim honorably served his country in the United States Navy from April 12, 1948, to April 7, 1952. During the Korean War, he served as an Aviation Electrician aboard the aircraft carrier USS Wasp (CV-18). Following his military service, James settled in Granby, Massachusetts, Jim had a son, James, with his first wife. With his second wife Joyce he had two more daughters, Julie and Wendy.

When in elementary school, a classmate of his was one of Jehovah's Witnesses. She was always kind to him. Years later, when he was contacted by Jehovah's Witnesses, he remembered the kindness of his former classmate and so listened to what they had to say. For years, Jim enjoyed the visits of Jehovah's Witnesses but the real turning point for him was when he was given the Live Forever book. He read the entire book in one night and started studying the Bible shortly after that, first with Ketch Brown and then Bard White. He was baptized April 19, 1986.

 On May 4, 1991 Jim married his wife, Beverly, and they were so happy serving Jehovah together for for 34 years.

Jim was always a faithful attendee at Christian meetings and very active in the ministry. For many years, he was a regular auxiliary pioneer and served as an elder for over 20 years.

Going for a coffee break at Atkins Farm in Amherst, was something Jim and Bev always looked forward to.

A trip to Kentucky to work unassigned territory was an experience Jim cherished and had many happy memories of that adventure.

He enjoyed visiting Cape Cod with Beverly and their dear friends, Buddy and Barbara Perez. Jim was a good golfer and excellent at playing the harmonica. He loved eating Oreos while watching the Boston Red Sox. He enjoyed spending quality time with friends and family. Jim worked as a realtor and at Smith College before retiring.

In July 2023, the Garnetts moved to Halifax and joined the Bridgewater Congregation and to be closer to Jay and Ruth and they met many new brothers and sisters and made new friends. They were glad to be closer to family. He enjoyed weekly visits from family and his friends: the Dixons, Ralph, Yvonne and Eme.

Jim was patient and kind and always had a twinkle in his eye when he greeted a person with his catchphrase: ""Hey! I haven't seen you since...the last time I saw you!"

He deeply loved Jehovah God and had full confidence in the hope of a resurrection.

Memorial Service to be at the Amherst MA Kingdom Hall on August 16th at 2:00