Garrett Matthew Connell

Garrett was born to an unwed mother and adopted by a childless couple, Larry and Susan Connell in 1992. He was baptized into the Christian Church as an infant at Grace Episcopal Church in Georgetown, Texas. As he grew, he showed intelligence and people skills and understanding beyond his years. He was naturally humble and sensed God in his own unique way.

His best friend Kel Gangi said, I remember when he ran for class president in the fifth grade. His slogan was “Vote for Garrett, he’s a good friend,” which became his motto for the rest of his life. He was known to be fair and always your friend.

He graduated from Georgetown High School in 2009 and then attended Southwestern University. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #520. He found purpose, camaraderie, loyalty and meaning in his work. His union friend Pat said to Ashley, “Garrett made an impact on my life. He was a cool guy and I truly mean this: he talked about you like you were his best friend. Every time we talked, he’d say, ‘Yeah, me and my old lady…’ and it was some story about y’all doing something fun or him being proud of you. You don’t always see guys talk like that about their girls, but it was a constant with him. You were his person thru and thru and everyone who spoke to him knew that.”

His instinctive love for children became apparent as he grew older. He enjoyed speaking “child.” He was a natural, gentle, paternal provider and protector to the children in his life - most recently to Juni, whom he loved dearly. He hoped there were more children to come.

Garrett and his father Larry would celebrate their birthdays together during Spring Break every year – often skiing in Colorado. Larry always held a special place in Garrett’s heart. His mother Susan always stood by him as his advocate, supporter, and friend throughout his life. Appropriately, Garrett’s funeral will be conducted on his 34th birthday to celebrate his life.

The one true love of Garrett’s life was Ashley Carter, a longtime friend. They enjoyed adventures such as the Renaissance Fair and went to many music festivals together. They traveled on many road trips across the USA to visit relatives. Garrett took Juni to gymnastics weekly and he loved taking Juni to the zoo.

Garrett was at a good place in his life. The future seemed full of promise. They made their home “on the farm” out in the country. Garrett was eagerly looking forward to being Ashley’s husband and Juni’s father for the rest of his life.

Child of God, you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever. We will miss your bright, smiling face, and we look forward to seeing you again in those mansions Jesus is preparing for us in His Father’s house in the stars.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. James Episcopal Church or Prince of Peace Lutheran Church are preferred, or gifts to the charity of your choice.