Dorothy Joann Garrison

Dorothy Joann Garrison, age 90, passed away on May 12, 2026 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Born on June 11, 1935 in Commerce, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of the late Everett R. Edwards and Essie (Kech) Edwards.

Dorothy shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Jessie C. Garrison II. Together, they built a life centered around hard work, faith, and family.

Throughout her life, Dorothy held a variety of careers, including working at the Wertz Cracker Factory. She was known for her resourcefulness and determination, even operating her own business repairing washing machines for members of the community. Later in life, at the age of 56, Dorothy pursued her nursing degree at Westark College, reflecting her deep compassion and dedication to caring for others. She went on to work in commercial nursing for many years before retiring.

Dorothy found great joy in simple pleasures, especially spending time at the lake. She loved riding in a boat with her hat and sunglasses on, enjoying the breeze and the beauty around her. A lifelong Christian, Dorothy faithfully attended Northside Baptist Church, Grand Avenue Baptist Church, and Fort Smith First Church of the Nazarene through the years. Her family finds comfort in knowing she has been welcomed into Heaven by her Savior and greeted as a faithful friend.

Dorothy will be remembered as a strong-willed woman who was sharp as a tack. She lived frugally, valued hard work, and carried herself in a way that was truly one of a kind. Her strength, wit, and independent spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She leaves behind her son, James Garrison and wife, Rachael; her grandchildren, Amanda Marr, Jeremy Chotes, and Jason Jones; her great-grandchildren, Haley Morris, James Becker, Jasmine Howard, Charlotte Marr, and George Marr; and her great-great-grandchildren, Makya Koree, Paris Howard, Amir Wilkins, and Braylen Becker.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Essie Edwards; her beloved husband, Jessie C. Garrison II; and her son, Clay Garrison.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance during a Visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. A Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Fort Smith National Cemetery, with Pastor Tyler Beetle officiating. Services are entrusted to Lewis Funeral Chapel.