J L McGarrity

J L McGarrity, 92, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Sunday, July 14, 2024, while surrounded by his loving family.

J L was born o June 6, 1932, to Levi and Alma (Ragan) McGarrity in Wynn, Arkansas.

J L was a preacher, pastor, and evangelist. J L spread the good word of the Lord everywhere he went; including brush harbors, tent revivals, church revivals, camp meetings, street ministries and everything in between. He was a Pastor in Ellington, Missouri, Panama City, Florida, and Cherry Valley, Arkansas. During his life, J L managed to travel to every state except for Alaska. He organized and helped with several rescue missions, including the delivery of food and clothing to Mexico, as well as visiting Haiti to spread the gospel. J L was very outgoing and never seemed to meet a stranger. While living in Poplar Bluff, J L worked at Wallis Case Dairy and Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and owned McGarrity Candy Company. He also worked as a truck driver and dispatcher for Valley Steel Products in Centralia, Illinois. J L was a kind and loving soul who will truly be missed.

J L is survived by two daughters, Diane (Larry) Dowd and Janet McGarrity; one son, Raymond McGarrity; four sisters, Bertha Elliott, Fannie Tucker, Betty (Merrald) Porter, and Lilly McGarrity; three brothers, Aaron (Gwen), S.M. (Tina), and Harley Gene McGarrity; five grandchildren, Andy Moore, Beth Gilmore, C.J. Million, Mitchell (Tink) McGarrity, and Trent (Cherokee) McGarrity; 10 great-grandchildren, Kera (Jeffrey) Mace, Leah Million, Bridget Million, Cole Million, Tara Moore, Levi Vernon, Charlette McGarrity, Mitchell McGarrity, Darlene McGarrity, and Thalia McGarrity; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

J L was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Debra “Debbie” (Charles) Million; and two sisters, Alma Mae McGarrity and Gladys (Fred) Huffman.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, July 19, 2024, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at 1 p.m. with Pastor Kent Miller officiating. Burial will take place at Black Creek Cemetery.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mr. J L McGarrity. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.