Karen Smith Garrett

Karen Smith Garrett, age 84, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at her home in Smithfield, Virginia. She was born a Christmas baby in Alliance, Ohio on December 25, 1938 and graduated from Newport News High School in 1956. She retired after 44 years of dedicated Civil Service as the Chief Claims Officer at the Judge Advocate General’s Office at Fort Eustis, Virginia. Karen was a faithful member of Benn’s United Methodist Church where she also proudly served as the Co-Hand Bell Director. She was married to her husband , Leonard, for 54 years.

Karen is survived by her two sons, Thomas A. Garrett (Jill) of California, MD, and Christopher S. Garrett (Melissa), of Wake Forest, North Carolina, one sister Sue Marton (John) of Chesterfield, Virginia; five grandchildren, Taylor (John), Jake(Rachel), Lorelai, Elijah, and Josiah; and one great-grandchild, Harper Anne. Karen loved the Lord, her family and her “Hottest Bridge Girls”. She loved spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren. She was an avid reader, bridge player and loved playing the bells for church. She also loved country music – especially Luke Bryan.

The family will receive friends from 9:00-10:00 AM, Saturday, April 8 at Benns United Church, followed by a funeral service and reception. The graveside service will be at Peninsula Memorial Park, Newport News, following the reception. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Benns United Methodist Church, 14571 Benns Church Blvd, Smithfield, VA 23430. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.