Jeff Garrett

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jeffrey “Jeff” Scott Garrett, age 62, of Joplin, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

Jeff was born on May 23, 1962 in Fort Dodge, Iowa to Floyd Garrett and Bertha Marsh. He was raised in the Fort Dodge area. He was a carpenter by trade, a profession that suited his meticulous nature and creative spirit. He loved expressing his skills by crafting, inventing, and building new things. 

Around the house his passion for gardening was also apparent. He enjoyed traveling with his two daughters and later with his granddaughters. Most trips involved the great outdoors, with highlights being visits to Mt. Rushmore and the Grand Canyon but also involved a fair number of NASCAR races. Jeff enjoyed the thrill of racing late model cars and for many years, you could count on seeing him at the track. He was a fun guy who loved to stay busy. 

When Jeff wasn't busy creating something or dreaming up his next project, you might find him in the kitchen, perfecting his cookie recipe. Jeff never believed in the world of google maps, preferring a good old atlas to find his way. He believed in hard work and self-reliance. Jeff’s passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the stories he told, the things he created, and the memories he made. He was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.

Jeff is survived by his two daughters, Sara Thurman and husband, Shawn, and Mary Still and husband, Jeremiah; three grandchildren, Charity Persinger, Kaylee Persinger and Abigail Shields; mother, Pat Draper; three siblings, Jerry Garrett, Donald Draper and wife, Maria, and Angel Draper; as well as nieces and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.