A Light to All Who Knew Him

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3)

Leslie (Les) Clifton Garrison, 63, passed away on July 13,2026.

Les was born in Queens, New York, to the late Rosmond Garrison and Thomas Garrison, Sr. He spent his early years there with his siblings before moving with his family to Lynchburg, Virginia, as a young child. Lynchburg became home—the place where he grew up, met the love of his life (Michelle), built lifelong friendships, and created a life filled with meaningful relationships, treasured memories, and rich experiences. Beneath his easy smile was quiet strength. He faced life’s greatest challenges with courage, determination, and faith - never complaining, never giving up, and inspiring others through his resilience.

As Les grew up in Lynchburg, he enjoyed the experiences and friendships that helped shape his early years. He attended EC Glass High School; those years became an important part of his story and the memories he carried throughout his life.

Les was a devoted husband to his wife of 22 years, Michelle. Together, they shared a life filled with love, companionship, laughter, travel, swimming lessons (LOL), and treasured memories. They looked forward to creating even more memories through future travels and new experiences. They also embraced each other’s children and families with open hearts, honoring the relationships that enriched their lives and became part of their story.

Les had a rare gift for making people feel welcomed and at ease. He never met a stranger and had a way of connecting with anyone, no matter what the setting. Whether he was speaking with someone he had known for years or meeting someone for the first time, he made people feel comfortable and included with his gentle spirit, quick wit, and perfectly timed sense of humor. Those closest to Les knew how much he valued the people in his life. He celebrated milestones, encouraged others, and found joy in everyday moments, whether through a conversation, a shared meal, a laugh, or simply being present.

Music was woven into the fabric of Les’ life. He loved playing his bass guitar, listening to jazz, and enjoying live music whenever he could. Music was more than something he enjoyed; it was something he felt deeply. Les also had a smooth, soulful singing voice that those closest to him were lucky enough to hear. He didn’t seek the spotlight, but every now and then, family and friends would catch him singing along to a favorite song, creating quiet moments filled with warmth and joy. Those simple memories became treasures that will always be cherished. Outside of work, Les also enjoyed practicing martial arts and was a proud member of the Star of the West Mason Lodge #24, where he served alongside his lodge brothers, living out values of service, character, and community.

Throughout his more than 30-year career at Delta Star, Les earned the admiration and respect of countless coworkers. As a test technician, he used his skills to contribute to the work he was proud to be part of. He was not only skilled at what he did but also a patient teacher and trusted mentor who generously shared his knowledge. The many people he trained carried forward not only what he taught but also the integrity, patience, and compassion he brought to his work.

Les’ faith in God was a quiet and personal part of his life. He carried that faith through the way he treated others—with compassion, humility, forgiveness, and grace. His beliefs were reflected in his unwavering optimism, the kindness he showed, the help he offered, and the respect he gave to those around him.

Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Those words beautifully reflect the life Les lived. His light shined through his laughter, his generosity, his wisdom, his music, and the many lives he touched along the way. Though he is no longer with us, the memories he created and the influence he had will continue through all who knew him. His song may have ended, but the melody of his life will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

Les was preceded in death by his parents, Rosmond Garrison and Thomas Garrison Sr, his Uncles, Joseph McCoy, Harry McCoy, Robert McCoy, Richard McCoy and his Aunt Ada Hamner.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Michelle Kinney Garrison; his children, Latrisa Woolfolk (Sherman), Brianna Snead, Marchelle Patterson, Justin Spears (Sherry), and Mia Reeves; bonus sons Michael Carter, Christopher Carter; CJ Carter; his grandchildren, Jeremiah Woolfolk, Markelle Patterson, Toni Patterson, Mason Spears, Jayden Spears, and Eliana Davis; his siblings, Thomas Garrison Jr. (Kathy), Kenneth Garrison, Rodney Garrison, and Sheila Garrison; his mother‑in‑law, Joyce K. Thompson; his sisters‑in‑law, Tracy Hubbard (Keith), Octavia Jones; his uncles, Mitchell McCoy (Ann), Carroll McCoy, his aunt Ersie McCoy Thomas; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. 

A celebration of Les' life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Scott Zion Baptist Church. A public viewing will take place one hour prior to the service.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is serving the family.