ARITON…Mr. Johnny Garner, a resident of Ariton, died early Saturday afternoon, March 7, 2026, at the home of his daughter. He was 93.
In keeping with the wishes of the family, there are no public services planned at this time. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to DaySpring Hospice, 2464 W. Main Street, Dothan, Alabama 36301 or to Evergreen Free Will Baptist Cemetery Fund, 3266 CR 113, Ariton, Alabama 36311.
Mr. Garner, son of the late James Gilbert Garner and Alga Sue Faulk Garner, was a proud native of Dale County. He grew up with deep roots in this community, and those roots shaped him into the hardworking, dependable man everyone knew him to be. Farming wasn’t just his job—it was his way of life. He spent most of his years working the land, tending to crops, and doing the kind of honest work that leaves a person tired at the end of the day but grateful for the life they’re building.
He served his country with honor as a veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Korean War.
When he wasn’t working, Mr. Garner enjoyed coon hunting and growing vegetables. He had a natural gift for making things grow, and he took pride in watching a garden come to life under his care. He was one of those people who simply couldn’t sit still—he always had to be doing something. Whether it was fixing, building, tending, or checking on something, he stayed busy from sunup to sundown. That steady motion was part of who he was.
He had a special love for animals of all kinds. His chickens, goats, and dogs were more than just animals, especially his longtime loyal dog, Smut. They were part of his daily life and brought him joy and companionship. He had a way with them, and they trusted him completely. Truth be told, he loved just about any creature he came across.
Mr. Garner was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Hayes Garner, whom he loved. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Sarah Marshall, Cullen Garner, an infant brother, and Carolyn Phillips. Though he endured great loss, he carried himself with quiet resilience and continued to pour love into the people and animals around him.
He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for the outdoors, his heart for animals, and the way he always kept his hands busy. But more than anything, he will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, uncle and for the steady, simple, good life he lived—one built on love, loyalty, and the land he called home. He will be remembered by his family as a loving father, grandfather, and uncle
Surviving relatives include his daughters, Andrea G. McLendon (Terrance) and Renee Garner, both of Ariton; sister, Ann Phillips; brother, Thomas Garner (AnnDora) both of Ozark; two grandchildren, Libbi McLendon Mitchell (Justin) and Hannah Beckworth; nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
