John "Jr" Wesley Garland

John “Jr” Wesley Garland, Jr., age 87, of Erwin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at the Johnson City Medical Center, while he was surrounded by his family. He was born in Greeneville, Tennessee to the late John Wesley Garland, Sr. and Estelle. Jr lived most of his life in Erwin however, during his military service he lived in various states including Huntsville, Alabama as well as Redding, California.

Jr was a proud United States Army Veteran who loved the military and his country dearly. During Jr’s honorable service to his country, he was awarded a National Defense Service Medal and Marksmanship Badge (M-14).

Jr managed the Dari Ace Drive-in from 1970-1972. He purchased the Dari Ace in 1979 and continued working there for many years. After leasing the Dari Ace, he continued to be involved with the business. Jr loved the restaurant, his employees, and his customers.

Jr was a genuinely good man of the highest integrity. He was honest, generous, and kind. Jr was a loving and dedicated father, and grandfather. He liked taking care of others and supported various charities throughout his life. Jr enjoyed planting trees, growing flowers, and tending to the Dari Ace landscaping.

Jr was a member of the Fishery Community Church.

His survivors include his three children: Tony Garland (Donna) of Erwin, Kelly Bailey (Doug) of Unicoi, and Kim McReynolds (Carlos) of Erwin; six grandchildren: Anthony Garland (Nicole), Meagan Padgett, John Padgett, Sage Bailey, Kaleb Tittle (Blake), and Camron McReynolds; four great grandchildren: Leah Sparks, Bowen Padgett, Nevaeh Garland, and Bentley Garland; one brother, Gerald Adkins (Darlene) of Church Hill; two sisters: Shirley Wilson and Darlene Lea, both of Kingsport; several nieces and nephews also survive.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the James H. Quillen Veterans Administration Hospital CLC and ER staff for the exceptional care and special attention given to Jr during his time there.

A private graveside service will be held for the family. Pastor Kevin Laws will officiate the graveside service and DAV Chapter 39 Honor Guard will render military honors. The family will receive friends at Kim’s house, 1434 Rock Creek Road, Erwin.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to continue Jr’s charitable spirit of giving and request donations be made in memory of Jr to: Fishery Community Church, Southside Freewill Baptist Church and Evergreen Freewill Baptist Church.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Garland family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com. 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin is privileged to serve the Garland family. (423) 743-1380.

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