Marie L. Garrett

Marie Lewis Garrett, age 70, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, at her home in Newnan, GA, surrounded by her loving family, after a long battle with breast cancer. Marie was born on October 20th, 1953 on Governors Island, New York, to Russell and Maria Lewis. Her parents met during WWII, and Marie was always proud of her father's distinguished military service. He retired as a Command Sergeant Major, and after his passing, Marie honored his memory by laying wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery, a tradition that held deep personal significance for her. She also cherished her mother's Austrian heritage, speaking fluent German and maintaining close ties with her European relatives. Marie dedicated her life to public service. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia and went on to receive a Master of Science from Georgia State University's College of Public and Urban Affairs in 1985. Throughout her career, she played a pivotal role in planning, managing, and consulting on the development of several cities in the metro Atlanta region, including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Canton, Milton, Stone Mountain, Powder Springs, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Brookhaven. In her professional life she was an accomplished lobbyist, grant writer, liaison, and manager. She maintained the highest standards for excellence for her projects. Her reputation was built on integrity. Marie's devotion to public service is best shown through her willingness to share her expertise. She taught management courses to the next generation of city leaders at both Reinhardt College and Georgia State University. Her completed projects reflect notable achievement at the local, state, and federal levels of government. Above all, Marie was most proud of her family. She shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Steve. A devoted wife and mother, she raised her three sons with a deep commitment to her Catholic faith, instilling values that have guided them throughout their lives. Her sons continue to honor her legacy through their careers in educational technology, teaching, and military service. Known as "Oma" to her grandchildren, Marie loved spending time with them. She enjoyed getting manicures and pedicures with Rachael and Julia, and feeding Grady's curious mind with conversations about how things work. Marie could often be found tailgating at Georgia football games, visiting European Christmas markets, hosting her family Christmas bowling party, and shopping for her grandkids' next pair of shoes or fabulous outfits. She took pride in being an excellent hostess, and she was well known for her hospitality. She relished travel, and especially her trips back "home" to be with family in Salzburg. Marie loved her friends and family dearly, and she will be deeply missed. Marie is survived by her beloved husband, Steve, her three sons, Stephen (Monica), Zachary, and Matthew (Rebecca), her three cherished grandchildren, Rachael (10), Grady (8), and Julia (6), her sister, Ingrid (Bob) Speer, and her brother, Charles (Lisa) Lewis. She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Maria Lewis. Marie will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marie's honor to the following ministries: St. Vincent de Paul, Saint George 771 Roscoe Rd. Newnan, GA 30263 https://www.osvhub.com/stgeorgenewnan/giving/funds/svdp-st-george St. Vincent de Paul, Saint Jude 7171 Glenridge Drive Sandy Springs, GA 30328 https://judeatl.com/about/giving/egiving/svdpmemorial/ Knitting / Prayer Shawl Ministry Cathedral of Christ the King 2699 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory 770-253-4580

Marie L. Garrett

October 20, 1953 - August 10, 2024