Tom Garrison - Obituary

Thomas Keith Garrison was born to Lyman and Mary Garrison in Fort Wayne Indiana on February 4th, 1945. He passed away peacefully in his sleep, at home in Oceanside, California on January 17, 2025. He was 79 years old, just short of 80.

Tom was the third son to Lyman and Mary Garrison. He had two older brothers, Jerry and Don.

Tom went to Central High School and graduated in 1963. He was hired by the Indiana State police and was their “Public Information Officer” for the majority of his 10 year tenure.  He had the opportunity to escort numerous movie stars - Roy Rogers, Dales Evans, Red Skelton and Donny and Marie Osmond – to name a few.

Tom also worked for the Messenger Corporation in Auburn, Indiana, and then was hired by Batesville Casket Company in Batesville, Indiana.

He met the love of his life, Glenda Farney, at the South Town Mall. They courted for a short time and married in June of 1976, subsequently moving to Oceanside, CA.

Tom was well known by many of the funeral homes throughout California and was an excellent host during the holidays. He was a vital part of the Steam Engine Museum in Vista, California and served on the board and as President.

In terms of hobbies, Tom had quite the tractor collection, which he fully enjoyed, along with scuba diving. His favorite spot to explore was “The Wall” in the Caymen Islands, with his dive buddy, Larry Caitlin.

He also enjoyed traveling, motorcycles, the SAS shooting club, good food, his 2 beardies and his golden doodle, and especially, spending time with good friends.

He is survived by his wife Glenda, his brother Jerry, his son Tom, daughters Cami and Jena, 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held, February 21, 2025, at 11:30am in the Pacific Room, at Eternal Hills Mortuary, 1999 El Camino Real, Oceanside, California.