Irene Garrett

On the glorious day of September 10, 1927, Reverend J.J. Johnson and Ethel Chenault gave birth to a beautiful baby girl in Gainesville, Texas. They so graciously named her Irene Johnson.

She received her formal education at Booker T. Washington school in Gainesville, Texas. She was a majorette for the school.

Being blessed to be born in a family of Christians, Irene was baptized at a very early age.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, Willie Lee Sweatt Sr., and second husband Lewis Hughes Garrett Sr., and six of her children: Michael L. Garrett, Gregory M. Garrett, Debra A. Manuel, Thomas C. Garrett, James L. Sweatt and Ruthie E. Manuel; siblings Helen Wilks, Jimmie Smith, Ulysses Johnson and Lyndon Johnson.

She is survived by her children Linda K. Johnson, Willie Lee Sweatt Jr., Connie L. Hendricks, Yvonne D. Hennesy, Lewis H. Garrett Jr., Marcia E. Garrett, Mary F. Vaughns and Mitchell L. Garrett.

Irene, wonderful homemaker and occasionally worked outside her home. A humble woman of God, loved unconditionally, never met a stranger, fed and clothed many, no matter the circumstances. Would give her last. She opened her heart and listened to many. Providing words of encouragement to all who needed. A true woman who instilled in her children and her heritage to be strong, never give up and fight for what you want and what is right.

She is lovingly remembered by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.