David T. Garner, 68, of Jacksonville, FL, passed away on November 12, 2024. Born in Chicago, IL, on July 1, 1956, he was the first-born son of Thomas and Myra Garner.
He is survived by his brothers, Robert Garner and Michael Garner; and four nieces, Jennifer Cherry, Stephanie Haworth, Jessica Garner and Ambre Thornton.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Myra Garner.
Dave attended Missouri Auction School in 1978. He worked in the family company, First Coast Auction Company, for 46 years. He was a member of the National Auctioneer’s Association and the Florida Auctioneer’s Association. Dave also worked for a local video and production company since the mid-80s. He was a talented wrestler. As a young man, he briefly represented Team USA on a tour of Ireland and Scotland. While attending Florida Tech University, now known as the University of Central Florida, he qualified for the 1976 United States Olympic trials. Dave was a quiet, humble man with a kind and generous heart. He was exceptionally intelligent. His eyes would light up when he talked about the space program, American history, the wonders of the world, or the marvels of God’s creation. He was also an extremely gifted artist. Over the years, he created many beautiful paintings and wood carvings that are treasured by the fortunate few he shared them with. Dave was a devoted son with a very close relationship to his mother and father. In their later years, he would visit them several times a week to have dinner, watch Jacksonville Jaguars football games, or attend his mother’s painting class. To his younger brothers, he was their best friend, their teacher, and their protector—everything a big brother should be. He lovingly cared for many dogs throughout his life. His dogs were his family, and nothing was more important to Dave than his family.
Visitation will be held on November 23, 2024 from 1:30 p.m. until the 2:00 p.m. memorial service at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka, IL.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in honor of Dave to First Coast No More Homeless Pets, 464 Cassat Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254.
Please share a memory of Dave at baierfuneralhome.com.
