Obituary

Everett Cornelius Garnett was born on March 20, 1939, in Shumansville, Virginia. He was the youngest of four children born to Martha Adelaide Garnett and Robert Earl Garnett. Everett entered into eternal rest on June 24, 2026, at his son and daughter-in-law's residence in Bowie, Maryland.

Everett accepted Christ at the age of seven at Mount Tabor Baptist Church in Shumansville, Virginia. Throughout his lifelong membership, he faithfully served in numerous ministries, including the Church School Ministry, Pastor's Aid Club, Men's Usher Board, Trustee Board, Men's Chorus, and the Deacon Board. Everett served as a Deacon for 44 years before being elevated to Deacon Emeritus in 2019. He also served as the church landscaper for over twenty years, traveling from Maryland to Virginia to ensure the grounds and cemetery were beautifully maintained for visiting families. He took immense pride in this work and truly loved Mount Tabor Baptist Church.

Everett received his early education in the Caroline County Public School System and graduated from Union High School in 1958. While attending Union High, he was actively involved in the Student Council, Fire Department, Industrial Arts program, and the varsity basketball team. He also served as a school bus driver during his student years.

On June 22, 1963, Everett married the love of his life, Louise Virginia Dodson Garnett. They shared 52 devoted years of marriage and were blessed with one son, Delwyn Garnett, born on November 20, 1973.

Seeking greater opportunities, Everett relocated to Maryland, where he began a distinguished career with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an opportunity made possible by the late Trip Coleman Sr. During his tenure, he worked for the National Center for Research Resources, supporting the Veterinary Resources Program. In this role, Everett was responsible for the care and management of laboratory animals, contributing to the advancement of biomedical research. His dedication earned him numerous awards and the respect of colleagues and researchers alike. After 33 years of faithful government service, he retired on March 31, 1994.

Following retirement, Everett embraced life to the fullest. He was a true outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting with his brother Alvin, gardening, and landscaping. Everett found great joy in sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends, and neighbors. Whether it was fresh vegetables from his garden or fish, venison, and rabbits he had caught, he gave generously and wholeheartedly. His quiet acts of kindness reflected his loving heart and his genuine desire to care for others. Known for his magnetic personality and warm, infectious smile, Everett brought light and joy wherever he went. His love for Jesus Christ was evident in his daily life and interactions with others.

On January 19, 2007, Everett was blessed with the role of grandfather, affectionately known as "Grandy," to Nadiya and Nikolas Garnett. Over the years, he poured immense love, wisdom, and guidance into their lives. For seven years, he had the joy of living with his family and seeing his grandchildren every day. Those moments he cherished deeply. The love he showed them was pure joy.

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 107:1, "Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever." Truly, GOD IS GOOD!

Everett was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Louise Virginia Dodson Garnett; his parents, Martha Adelaide and Robert Earl Garnett; his sisters, Wilhelmina Garnett Jordan and Vivian Garnett Coleman; and his brother, Alvin Earl Garnett.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving son, Delwyn Garnett; daughter-in-law, Dr. Kia Jackson-Garnett; two grandchildren, Nadiya and Nikolas Garnett; sisters-in-law, Mabel Garnett and Louise Dodson; brothers-in-law, Harry Coleman and Wesley Dodson Jr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Visitation / Viewing :
Date & Time: Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Third Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 9132 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, VA 22580

Celebration of Life Service :
Date & Time: Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Location: Third Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 9132 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, VA 22580

Burial / Interment :
Location: Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, 21795 Mattaponi Trail, Milford, VA 22514

Repast / Reception :
Date & Time: Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 1:45 PM
Location: Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, 21795 Mattaponi Trail, Milford, VA 22514

Services of comfort entrusted to: C.W. Edwards Funeral Home, Inc. of Bowling Green, Va. 22427

Live Streaming will be available at C.W. Edwards Funeral Home Facebook Page.