Cecil Taylor Garrison Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Cecil Taylor Garrison Jr., fondly known as Gary, of Emmett, Idaho, on February 12, 2024. He departed surrounded by family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

Gary was born on September 4, 1947, in San Diego, California, to the late Cecil Taylor Sr. and Muriel Josephine Garrison (Butler). Alongside his sister Susan Williamson, he embarked on a childhood marked by perpetual motion, living in various Western states. He regaled his children with tales of traversing snow-covered hills and negotiating daily releases for his sister on the way to school. Amidst his adventures, he collected pets, including a wild tarantula in Arizona, and cherished memories of hunting with his father, often recounting the tale of the mistaken Black Swan.

In the mid-sixties, Gary’s family settled in Nyssa, Oregon, where he met the love of his life, Pam. Marrying at the tender age of 19, Gary and Pamela Kay Garrison embarked on a partnership that lasted over 57 years, jokingly claiming they “raised each other,” having spent more time together than apart. Pam, aware of Gary’s reputation for car racing and school-skipping antics, stood by him through thick and thin, much to the amusement (and occasional chagrin) of their children, who often found themselves outsmarted by their shenanigan-savvy father.

After graduating, Gary enlisted in the Army National Guard, serving during the Vietnam War in logistics for mortar crews. His professional journey led him through various roles, starting as a car mechanic, transitioning into bartending, then navigating through management positions in agriculture, before settling into contracting, with a brief stint as a rancher. Regardless of the endeavor, Gary approached each with gusto, reveling in the camaraderie of hard work and collaboration.

Community-minded, Gary dedicated himself to serving on Chamber of Commerce boards, Little League and Babe Ruth baseball boards, and various professional associations. Yet, his most cherished title was father. He adored spending time with his children, Stacy (deceased), Gary (Jennifer), and Christal (Tim), supporting their endeavors and concocting inventive meals dubbed "trash" on kitchen duty nights.

An avid outdoorsman, Gary’s heart belonged to Stanley Lake in Idaho, where the family vacationed for over 40 years, indulging in fishing, hiking, dirt bike riding and water skiing. His role as grandpa to Drew, Porter, and Sawyer filled him with joy, as he shared his love for outdoor adventures and travel with his grandchildren.

In addition to his family, Gary had a knack for befriending all who crossed his path. None more so than his dear friends Jimmie and Leslie Yorgensen who he leaves behind with decades of fond and colorful memories.

Though we bid farewell to Gary with heavy hearts, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the countless memories he created and the laughter he inspired. In the words of Dr. Seuss, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Rest in peace, Dad, knowing you will forever reside in our hearts and minds as we toast your memory.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 29 at 11:00 AM at Hilltop Cemetery in Nyssa, Oregon, where Gary will be interred to rest alongside his son. Following the service, a celebration of life will be held at the home of Tim and Christal, beginning at 3:00 PM and lasting until the Bud Light runs out. Please contact a family member for directions if you would like to attend. All are invited to raise a glass in Gary’s honor, share stories, and celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, laughter and cherished moments.

The family kindly asks that those desiring to offer condolences consider contributing to either the Sawtooth Society, the Elderly Opportunity Agency, or a preferred charity in honor of Gary.