Bernard Garnett, subdivision developer in eastern New Orleans, dies at 78
Times Picayune 04-08-2010
Submitted By NOVA

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Bernard Garnett Sr., an entrepreneurial carpenter who established two
businesses and developed two subdivisions in eastern New Orleans, died March 29
at his New Orleans home. He was 78.

A lifelong New Orleanian who started his career as a carpenter, Mr. Garnett
founded Bernard Garnett Construction Co. in the late 1960s. Working with his
two sons, he formed a partnership, Golden Hammer Construction Co., and was its
president and chief executive officer.

He came up with the name, saying, "We're the company with the Midas touch," his
son Michael Garnett said.

Mr. Garnett, a graduate of Joseph S. Clark High School, specialized in building
and renovating homes, and he developed the Bullard Park and Golden Heights
subdivisions.

He didn't retire, Michael Garnett said, adding that Mr. Garnett was working
with his sons shortly before he died.

The Community Improvement Agency and the Urban League of Greater New Orleans
honored him, and Ebony magazine featured him in its Father's Day issue in 1995.

At his death, Mr. Garnett was president of the Cavaliers Social and Pleasure
Club. He had been a longtime member.

He also was a Saints season-ticket holder from the beginning, Michael Garnett
said, and he was thrilled to be able to see the team win the Super Bowl in
February.

Survivors include his wife, Genevieve Garnett; two sons, Michael Garnett and
Bernard Garnett Jr.; a daughter, Carla Stanfill; a brother, Sherman Garnett; a
sister, Isadora Caldwell; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

A Mass will be said Saturday at 11 a.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2022
St. Bernard Ave. Visitation will start at 9 a.m.

Burial will be in St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. Charbonnet-Labat-Glapion Funeral
Home is in charge of arrangements.