Gene A. Garris

COLUMBIA—Gene Allen Garris, Sr. of Columbia, SC passed away unexpectedly on the morning of February 28, 2016.He was predeceased by his father, Roy Garris, Sr. and younger brother, Donald Ray Garris.He is survived by his loving son, Gene Allen Garris, Jr. (Angela), grandchildren, Laurel, Cornelia, Maximos and Leonidas as well as his mother, Hattie Holladay Garris and brothers, Roy Garris Jr., William Ralph Garris (Jeanne), and David Carrol Garris (Cheryl). Gene lived a full and rambunctious life, always with a story and (often devious) smile to share, especially with the patrons of the family business, Garris Insurance Agency.He retired from Garris Insurance in 2004.Gene was a graduate of Mars Hill College and served in the Army National Guard.Gene loved meeting new people, telling stories, and solving problems.He was a great friend and advisor to many people. Gene was a gregarious and affable man, often charming his way out of (and sometimes into) trouble.His most favorite people were his grandchildren, who were fortunate enough to live their entire lives thus far with him in their home.He saw the very first stepand heard the very first word of each child and shared many wonderful stories and memories with them all.His charming wit, vivid imagination, and mischievous smile are a welcomed legacy left to each grandchild, ensuring his memory is eternal. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 4, 2016 at Temples Halloran Funeral Home Chapel, 5400 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC, 29212 . The Reverend Father Michael Platanis, Dean, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral will officiate.Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia, SC 29209.The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 3, 2016 from 6-8 p.m. at Temples Halloran Funeral Home, 5400 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC, 29212. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mr. Garris’ honor—The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral Building Fund, 1931 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29201.