Norfolk City Virginia USGenWeb Archives Obituaries.....Garrett, R. K. D. May 10, 1945
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Diane Renfrow dianel14@gmail.com October 29, 2015, 7:23 am

Norfolk Journal and Guide,May 19,1945
Norfolk - A vast crowd which began to assemble at Garrett’s Community Church, as 
early as 8 a.m. Wednesday, to view the body of the beloved pastor and founder, 
the Rev. R. K. D. Garrett, which lay in state in the edifice, overflowed the 
building several hours before the beginning of the funeral of the esteemed 
minister.

A widely-known clergyman whose ministerial career covered more than 50 years, 
Dr. Garrett died at a local hospital Thursday night, May 10. His home was at 922 
Mariner street.

More than 70 cars were brought into use to convey the mourners and admirers to 
the funeral services which began at 1 p.m. The principal eulogy was delivered by 
the Rev. G. T. Long of Washington, DC, a life-long friend of the deceased.

Methodist ministers had charge of the program with the Rev. H. M. Shields of St. 
John’s AME Church, serving as master of ceremonies. Participating clergymen 
included the Rev. C. J. Forbes, The Rev. J. E. Harris, The Rev. H. B. 
Threadgill, Rev. Mr. Forbes, the Rev. J. A. Beckett, the Rev. James E. Billups 
of Montclair, NJ, the Rev. M. Davis, and Rev. Mr. Upshaw. Remarks were made by 
Dr. D. W. Byrd.

The services began with a processional and favorite hymns sung were “Why Should 
We Start and Fear To Die,” “Servant of God Well Done,” and “O Thou in Whose 
Presence.” The choir of the Elizabeth City Church also furnished music.

Interment was in Calvary Cemetery.

Dr. Garrett was founder and pastor of Garrett’s Community Church, Cumberland 
street, this city; founder, builder, and pastor of Holy Trinity Community Church 
in Elizabeth City, NC.

Dr. Garrett came to Norfolk in 1915 as pastor of St. Luke’s CME Church on East 
Olney road, now St. Paul’s CME Church. After relinquishing this charge he built 
the edifice at the corner of Nicholson and Lincoln streets which he established 
as Garrett’s CME Temple.

Later years saw this building change hands, following which the minister became 
affiliated with the national Community Churches, and led a congregation into the 
structure on Cumberland street which became Garrett’s Community Church. Here he 
had remained for the past 15 years, dividing his time with the Elizabeth City 
church which he established about seven years ago.

Regarded as an able and fluent preacher, and an amiable pastor, Dr. Garrett 
enjoyed a substantial following and was highly esteemed in both cities. He was 
the treasurer of the National Council of Community Churches.

Born in Gaffney, SC, one of 13 children of the late Mr. and Mrs. Levi Garrett, 
the clergyman obtained his education in the public schools of his home state, 
and at Paine College, Augusta GA. In earlier days, as an evangelist, Dr. Garrett 
traveled extensively, conducting revivals and special meetings in various 
sections of the country. On the Sunday preceding his fatal attack, he was 
scheduled to officiate at the dedication of a new Community church near 
Petersburg VA.

The body will be removed from Hale’s Funeral Home and placed in the church at 10 
a.m. Wednesday where it will lie in state until the hour of the funeral.

The survivors include his widow; five children, Mrs. E. T. Poole of Norfolk; 
Mrs. A. D. Donaldson of Champaign, IL; R. K. D. Garrett Jr., Norfolk; Mrs. 
Joseph Obey, New York City; Charles Levi Garrett, U.S. Army, overseas; six 
grandchildren, Davenport Donaldson, pharmacist mate,USN; Garrett Obey, US Army; 
Joseph Obey, USCG; Miss Margaret Poole, Norfolk, and five-year old Paul 
Donaldson.
(listed 5 grandchildren in newspaper obituary)

The several other relatives include two nephews who were also ministers. They 
are the Rev. J. E. Garrett of New Bern, NC, and the Rev. J. G. Garrett of 
Cleveland OH.

Additional Comments:
Calvary Cemetery

GARRETT, R I2034 Section 20, Block 20, Lot 117, Space NW	0 05/16/1945

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