OBITUARY

J.L. Michael (Mike) McGarity, 81, of Monroe passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.  Mike was born on March 4, 1944 to the late Lescar Caldwell McGarity and the late Dorothy Janette (Brown) McGarity.  He was a graduate of the University of Georgia, where he was an active member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and a huge Georgia Football fan. 

After graduating he returned home to the family business where he eventually became owner and President of the second oldest Ford Dealership in Georgia.  He loved his hometown and served his community in many ways, one being a long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Monroe where he served as president in 1980-1981.  He continued his family legacy through the JL McGarity Citizenship Award by taking much pride and devotion in naming the recipient each year.  He loved playing golf, traveling and most importantly playing his guitar and singing.

His faith was very important to him, he was a devoted member of the St. Albans Episcopal Church and choir and most recently found himself welcomed in fellowship at the First Baptist Church of Monroe. His biggest love and devotion were to his children and grandchildren.  He was undoubtedly the best father and granddaddy. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Taylor McGarity. 

Mike’s kindness, generosity and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.  He believed in family and relationships and loved sharing stories and memories that will stand the test of time. 

Mr. McGarity is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Jamie and Steve Noles, Caroline and Spencer Nash, daughter-in-law, Tricia McGarity; sister, Jan Saunders; brother and sister-in-law, Pat and Suzanne McGarity; grandchildren, Ian Dutton, Will Dutton, Callen Nash, Lila Nash, Ashlyn McGarity, and Anna Grace McGarity; former wife and mother of his children, Pam McGarity.

The memorial service will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 3:00 pm in the sanctuary of the First Baptist Church Monroe with the Rev. Todd Ware officiating.  Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery.  Prior to the service, there will be a visitation from 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm for friends to share memories with the McGarity family. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Rotary Club of Monroe Georgia.