John O. Garner, a long-time resident of Texas, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on November 1, 2024, in San Antonio, TX. His life, marked by dedication to his career, community involvement, and cherished relationships, will be remembered by many.
Born on December 16, 1940, in Abilene, Texas, John was the son of J. Arlie and Melba Larue Garner. He was a proud graduate of Abilene High School, class of 1959, before continuing his education at McMurry University, where he earned his degree in 1966. His roots in Abilene and Texas shaped his values and commitment to the local community.
John dedicated a significant portion of his career to the retail industry, starting in shoe sales with Thornton’s in Abilene. His professional path then led him to the insurance sector, where he initially worked with Royal Globe Insurance Co. His career progressed as he moved to Harlingen, TX, and joined Flynn Insurance Agency, later May & Associates Insurance Agency, and finally Texas Insurance Agency. Throughout his insurance career, John built lasting relationships and demonstrated his strong work ethic.
Beyond his professional life, John was deeply committed to community service. A notable example was his active involvement in the Harlingen Rotary Club. He served as president from 1993 to 1994 and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow for his contributions. His faith was also central to his life, as a former member of the First Baptist Church in Harlingen and later a member of the First Baptist Church in San Antonio after relocating.
In his personal life, John embraced his passions with enthusiasm. He found joy in golfing with friends and the relaxation of fishing in the Laguna Madre. These hobbies provided him with cherished moments of leisure and camaraderie.
John is survived by his loving wife, Gaye Garner, and his sons Ron Reger, James Garner, and Russell Reger. His legacy extends to numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, cousins, and a wide network of friends who will fondly remember him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James A. Garner, sister-in-law Sue Garner, and his son Gaines A. Garner.
A service celebrating John’s life will be held at the First Baptist Church in San Antonio, located at 515 McCullough Ave., San Antonio, TX, on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 2:00 PM. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at http://www.fbcsa.org/specialevents.
The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Texas Baptist Men’s Association, 5351 Catron Dr., Dallas, Texas 75227, reflecting John’s values and community spirit.
