James M. “Mackie” Garrett, age 90, born on July 7, 1930, passed away Saturday, January 19, 2021. After a short illness, he succumbed to Covid-19 at Thomas Hospital. He was predeceased by his wife of more than 65 years, Nelda Creamer Garrett, and his son, James Craig Garrett. He is survived by his son, Jeff Garrett (Thor Cumbie) of Mobile, his sister Patricia (Bill) Bagby of Belforest, and a whole slew of in-laws, nieces & nephews and great-nieces & nephews. He was “Uncle Mackie” to them, and because he didn’t have grandchildren, he greatly cherished these relationships. One of note is Sandra Shannon, who moved in to help take care of Nelda in her waning years about seven years ago. He called Sandra his “swiss army knife”, and said “everybody needs one of her, she could do anything! “. Mackie had a long career in law enforcement starting with the Fairhope Police Department, then to the Alabama State Troopers, and finally to the US Marshals Service for the Southern District of Alabama, where he retired as the Chief Deputy. After a short-lived retirement, he went on to serve as the Business License Inspector for Baldwin County for more than 12 years where he also retired. Mackie didn’t like being bored. He was quick with his wit, and could make most anybody chuckle, or at least blush. Whether or not you wanted it, he frequently gave advice, mostly sound, but always founded in true love and concern; he was not a shy man. Mackie loved his family unconditionally and made sure that they knew it. He was independent to the end and even at 90, he still cut his own grass (and often that of his neighbors). He could drive the wheels off a car and was an expert marksman, lately hunting (almost exclusively) armadillos and an occasional snake in his fishpond. Mackie’s passing is going to leave a big hole in the Belforest Community and in the hearts of those that loved him. The family will have a private burial on Friday, January 22, and a memorial service in the future when it is safer to gather. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Prodisee Pantry (https://prodiseepantry.org/donate) or the charity of your choice, Mackie would like that.
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