John M. Garner, of Blackwood, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, at the age of 71.

John Michael Garner, lovingly known as John Mike and affectionately called Dad, Pop-Pop, and “Sodapop,” passed away surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Born in Paris, Texas, John was one of four children born to Comer Garner and Mary (nee Elias) Garner.

John was the beloved father of Stacey Wilcox (Andy), and Sean Garner, and a devoted grandfather of Desiree and her husband, Russell. He was the proud great-grandfather of Sonny, who brought an immeasurable amount of joy into his life. To Sonny, he was “Sodapop,” a fitting name for a man who truly loved his soda – and one that became a special part of their bond. John also leaves behind his dear siblings, Robert Garner and his wife Myrtle, his favorite sister Sharon Kondas, and Richard Garner and his wife Sadie, as well as his many loving nieces and nephews.

Although John and Sheryl eventually divorced, they had been childhood sweethearts, and their connection remained important throughout his life. Sheryl and her husband, Matthew Davey, cared for John tirelessly during his later years, especially until the very end. Their devotion and compassion will always be remembered with profound gratitude.

John worked for more than 30 years as a blackjack and poker dealer. Later, after developing narcolepsy and facing numerous health challenges many things became more difficult, but his devotion to his family never changed.

John had a quick wit, a warm sense of humor, and one of the biggest hearts anyone could know. He was generous even when he had little to give, offering his time, laughter, attention, and compassion. As a father, he was loving and gentle, often sacrificing his own wants and needs for his children.

He was also known for his enormous bear hugs. John would hold his children tightly and say that he needed to hug them a little longer so the hug would last until they saw each other again. That simple gesture reflected the depth of his love and his desire to hold on to every moment with his family.

Those who knew John will remember his sense of humor, his generosity, his tenderness and the genuine concern he had for the people that mattered to him. They will remember the way he made family traditions matter and the way he gave so much of himself to the people he loved.

John’s greatest legacy is not measured in possessions or accomplishments, but in the love he gave and the love he left behind.

He loved his family with his whole heart, and he was—and always will be—deeply loved in return.

Family and friends are invited to attend John’s visitation on Monday from 1:30 to 3:00 PM at the Egizi Funeral Home, located at 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Township. A service to honor John’s life will follow at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”