Richard L. Garner

Richard “Dick” Lamont Garner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025 at the age of 83 at his home in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

He was the son of Oliver L. “Pete” and Ruth H. Garner. Born in Asheville on December 3, 1941, he spent his childhood there and became the first day student ever to attend and graduate from Asheville School. He went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he completed both his undergraduate studies and additional years of schooling to earn a Pharmacy degree. He used that degree for 42 years, tirelessly working at Revco/CVS Pharmacy, before retiring in Myrtle Beach.
Dick is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Peggy, and two wonderful children – Hayes (his wife Lori) of Hilliard, OH, and Lisa (her husband Will) of Apex, NC. He is also survived by his four adoring grandchildren – Ragan, Jake, Alli, and Holly; Jan (wife of his late brother Gary), of Arden, NC, his brother Bob (his wife Nel) of Plymouth, MA, and his niece and four nephews.

Dick was an avid UNC Tar Heel fan who rarely missed a basketball, football, or baseball game. Whether cheering in the stands or watching from home, he bled Carolina Blue. His love of sports didn’t stop there — Dick also followed the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers and enjoyed countless summer evenings at Myrtle Beach Pelicans games.

A devoted family man, Dick cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. From hours spent on the beach, to tailgating in Chapel Hill, or time spent at the Garner family lake house in Lake Lure, NC, his happiest days were sharing these times with his family and friends.
Those who knew Dick remember him for his endless analysis of all things sports, quick wit, warm heart, and calm and consistent personality. He was the type of man who never met a stranger and who always made others feel seen and cared for. Dick’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Darnelle “D” Franklin and Ann Chestnut for the compassionate and genuine loving care they provided during his final months. We are also thankful for the many dedicated members of Hospice who cared for Dick with such kindness, empathy, and professionalism. A heartfelt “thank you” also goes to the pastors and members of First Presbyterian Church for their countless visits and unwavering love & support throughout this challenging time. We truly could not have done this without each of you. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, July 9, in Wilkes Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, followed by a visitation in the Kirk Room. If you are able to attend, and in the spirit of Dick, we encourage you to come in his favorite “uniform,” Casual Carolina Blue.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach, 3810 Robert M. Grissom Parkway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, or the Rams Club, P.O. Box 2446, Chapel Hill, NC 27515, in honor of Dick’s lifelong Tar Heel commitment and dedication.

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