Dennis Garrett

Dennis Garrett Age 82, of Braidwood, IL, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Alden Estates in Naperville, IL, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 28, 1944, in Morgan County, TN, to Woodrow and Flossie (née Stringfield) Garrett. On January 28, 1967, Dennis was united in marriage to Jean Francis Poppleton in Braidwood, IL. Their marriage was one of love, commitment, and partnership, and they shared many meaningful years together until her passing in 2022. Dennis Garrett proudly served his country in the United States Army after being inducted into active service on June 13, 1963. A Vietnam veteran, he served as a Light Weapons Infantryman and attained the rank of Private First Class, carrying out his duties with dedication, discipline, and respect for the uniform he wore. During his military service, Dennis was assigned to Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, often known as the Blackhorse Regiment, one of the most well-known cavalry units in United States Army history. The regiment is widely recognized for its significant role and sustained service during the Vietnam War, with units tasked with demanding reconnaissance and security operations. His service later included assignment to the U.S. Army Personnel Center in Oakland, California. In recognition of his service, Dennis was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster and qualified as a Marksman with the M-1 rifle. He was honorably discharged on May 7, 1965, after nearly two years of active-duty service, completing his military career with honor and pride. Following his military service, Dennis dedicated 32 years of his working life as a chemical operator at Stepan Chemical in Elwood, IL. He believed strongly in giving back to his community and volunteered his time at the Braidwood Food Pantry. Dennis was a proud member of the Wilmington VFW Post 5422 and the Braidwood Recreation Club. In his free time, he especially enjoyed watching NASCAR races on Sundays. Dennis is survived by his children, Dennis E. (Lois) Garrett of Braceville, IL, Teresa (Allen) Sanches of Morris, IL, David (Sherri) Garrett of South Wilmington, IL, and Rebecca (Phil) Beasley of Wilmington, IL. He was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren, Tim (Nettie) Garrett, Jacob Garrett, Joshua Garrett, Anthony (Sam) Garrett, Taylor Garrett, Stephanie Beasley, Kayla Garrett, Cody Garrett, Mandie Sanches, Megan (Henry) Coates, and Kilee Crichton. He was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren, Dalilah Garrett, Bentley Garrett, Waylon Perry, Amelia Perry, Milo Coates, Logan Coates, Kaden Garrett, Ariel Sullivan, Ashton Sullivan, Maggie Perry, and Violet Perry, with one additional great-grandchild expected in May 2026. He is also survived by his brothers, Billy Wayne Garrett of TN, Vernon Garrett of TN, Roger (Marva) Garrett of IL, and David (Bobbie June) Garrett of TN, and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Montana. Out of pure love, Marilyn took it upon herself to make sure Dennis was cared for, grocery shopping, spending time with him, and bringing him lunch every single day, a gesture that meant more than words could ever express. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Jean; and his sister, Judy Simmons. Pallbearers will be Tim Garrett, Josh Garrett, Jacob Garrett, Taylor Garrett, Cody Garrett, and Bud Montana. Visitation will be held at R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lightways Hospice of Joliet. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit Dennis’s online guestbook at www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com or find us on Facebook. R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory 401 E. Main St., Braidwood, 815-458-2336 www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com

Dennis Garrett

January 28, 2026 - February 2, 2026

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Dennis Garrett

January 28, 2026 - February 2, 2026

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