Timothy “Timmy” Garris, 46, of Goldsboro, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 4, 2026, in Eddyville, Kentucky.
Tim was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend to many, but the role he cherished above all others was being a dad to his two children, Addison, 19, and Noah, 17. They were, without question, his greatest pride and joy. He loved them fiercely, was incredibly proud of the young adults they were becoming, and found his greatest happiness in making them laugh, spending time with them, and watching them grow. Of all the things Tim accomplished and enjoyed throughout his life, nothing compared to being Addison and Noah’s dad.
Tim had a larger-than-life sense of humor and an incredible ability to make people smile. He could make you laugh until you cried and took genuine joy in seeing the people around him happy. Whether you knew him for years or had just met him, chances are Tim found a way to make you laugh. Some of his best laughs were shared with his brother, Kevin. The two shared the kind of brotherly bond that was filled with teasing, practical jokes, giving each other a hard time, and plenty of laughter. When Tim and Kevin were together, there was usually a good story that came from it, and their ability to make each other—and everyone around them—laugh was a special part of their relationship.
He loved golfing, especially rounds spent with his dad, John Lee; fishing; grilling and feeding a crowd; winning go-kart races; and his time spent in Alaska, particularly halibut fishing. Tim was happiest when he had a project in front of him and could turn an idea into something beautiful. Exceptionally talented with his hands, he had a gift for construction and could build, fix, create, or improve just about anything he set his mind to.
Tim also showed his love through food. He loved to grill, cook, and feed the people around him, and there was always something special about gathering together for a meal he had prepared. Tim believed in the Lord and carried that faith with him throughout his life. His family finds comfort in knowing that his life on earth has ended, but that he is now in the hands of the Lord and at peace.
More than his talents, hobbies, or the things he built, Tim will be remembered for the way he made people feel. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and wanted the people he cared about to be happy. His personality, humor, generosity, and unforgettable ability to make others smile will be deeply missed.
Tim was fortunate to have two important father figures in his life, John Lee Garris and John Clapp, each of whom held a special place in his life and family. He also shared a special bond with his Mama, Peggy. No matter where life took him or how old he got, Tim loved coming home to visit his Mama. Her home was always home to him—a place of comfort, familiarity, and unconditional love that he knew he could always return to.
Tim leaves behind many things he built with his hands, but his greatest legacy will always be Addison and Noah. He loved them beyond measure, and there was nothing in this world he was more proud of than being their father.
Tim is survived by his children, Addison Garris and Noah Garris; his father, John Lee Garris; his parents, John and Peggy Clapp; his brother, Kevin Clapp, and sister-in-law, Paige Clapp; his sister, Christy Razim; his nieces and nephews, Tyler Razim, Dylan Razim, Brayden Razim, Hannah Razim, Karley Jester, and Kira Clapp; his special uncle and aunt, Jeff and Karen Garris; Grandma Linda and Grandma Holly; along with many other family members and friends who loved him.
Tim was preceded in death by Jon Price, Randy Clapp, Evelyn (Paul), and Ruth (Rudolph) Ivey.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, Kentucky 42025.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann.
Additionally, the family will hold a Celebration of Life for Tim in Illinois on Saturday, October 3rd. More details will be shared soon, and the family hopes those who knew and loved Tim will join them in celebrating his life, sharing memories, and remembering the laughter he brought to so many.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit Tim’s Tribute Wall at www.filbeckandcann.com.
