Lola Grace B. Garrett

Lola Grace B. Garrett, 87, finally got her wish to meet Saint Peter at the Pearly Gates of Heaven where she was reunited with the love of her life, L.C. "Buddy" Garrett on Wednesday, November 11, 2020.

Born in Greenville, SC, she was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Clara McElrath Benfield.

A lifelong resident of Greenville she graduated from Parker High School and worked in the Human Resources department of Liberty Life Insurance for over 30 years. Following retirement from Liberty Life, she decided to turn her love of travel into her own travel agency business, Lola's Travels. With Lola’s Travels she organized travel groups taking her on journeys domestically and internationally to the most beautiful places in the world. Despite all her world travels her favorite destination locations were her getaway spots at Sugar Mountain, NC and even more importantly her family beach house on Tybee Island, GA.

She possessed a servant’s heart and lived a life in which she dedicated her time to spreading her joy and character of compassion with others. A devout Christian, she was an active member in the Stephens Ministry at First Presbyterian Church as well as numerous youth and children ministries at East Park Baptist Church. Along with her engagement in multiple ministry programs she spent her time volunteering regularly at Welcome Elementary School, the Ronald McDonald Home as well as hospice care services.

Her memory lives on with her two loving daughters, Joye Lay of Columbia and Joan Garrett of Greenville; her loving son, Glenn Coker of Greenville; three wonderful grandchildren, Bryce Lay and his wife, Rachael of Columbia, Garrett Lay of Greenville, Grace Lay of Greensboro; one precious great-granddaughter, Makenna Lay of Columbia; her devoted caregiver, Gina Hudson; special lifetime friend, Peggy Cooper; and her most beloved cat, Sasha and her granddog, Buddy.

She was a woman that radiated kindness and compassion that left her fervently adored by the family and loved ones so fortunate to have her in their lives.

In addition to her parents, Lola was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, Buddy Garrett; and one of her best friends, Reva Coker.

Although there will be no formal visitation, friends are welcome to view and leave notes of condolences for the family on Sunday, November 15, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown. A service to celebrate Lola's life will be held on Monday, November 16, 2020 at 12:00 noon at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown Chapel. Seating is limited to allow for social distancing and those in attendance are asked to wear a mask. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to Helpers of the Vine, Inc., 3620 Pelham Road, Suite 5 #337, Greenville, SC 2615.

The family is at the home.

Condolences and "Hugs from Home" may be sent to the family by clicking the link above.