James "Jim" Bryan Garrett

James “Jim” Bryan Garrett, 87, of Middletown, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026. He was born in Sulphur Springs, IN, on December 21, 1938, to the late Pliny and Bula (Harter) Garrett.

Jim spent his early years working on family farms. He was a graduate of Sulphur Springs High School in 1956 and pursued further study at Ball State College for two years. Jim & Bonnie lived in Middletown after they got married in 1960. Jim was a petroleum products delivery driver for National Gasoline Corporation for many years. He then retired as President of the company in 2000.

Jim was an active and devoted member of his community. He was a 67-year member of the Sulphur Springs Masonic Lodge, attaining the rare and distinguished honor of 33rd Degree Mason. As a Grand Lodge Officer, he left a lasting impact within the fraternity. He was also a faithful member of the Henry County Shrine Club, the Middletown Conservation Club, the Yorkrite, and the Eastern Star. Ever dedicated to public service, Jim was a founding member of the Middletown First Aid Unit and served for many years on its board, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of his friends and neighbors. His commitment even extended to the political realm as a Republican precinct committeeman.

Outside of his professional and civic commitments, Jim found joy in his hobbies. He was skilled in leather making, a passionate coin collector, and often spent time fishing. Jim was an avid race fan and had tickets to the Indy 500 for 50+ years. He was a Tennessee Squire through Jack Daniels distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of over 66 years, Bonnie Garrett; children, Julie (Wayne) Stubblefield, Beth Cox, and Andy (Brandi) Garrett; grandchildren, Shelby Stubblefield, Skyler (Alex) Stubblefield, Bailey (Nathan Ballinger) Cox, Sydney Cox, and Rachael Harless; great grandchildren, Micah Ballinger, Arlo Ballinger, and Willow Stubblefield; brother-in-law, John Kellam; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers, Tom Garrett, Bill Garrett, and Dan Garrett; and his sister, Nancy Kellam.

Services will be at 7:00pm on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Ballard and Sons Funeral Home in Middletown with Pastor Phil Rogers officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00pm until the time of the service on Wednesday. Cremation will take place with Ballard and Sons Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Middletown First Aid Unit at 653 Locust St., Middletown, IN 47356 or the Middletown Community Church at 1074 Locust St., Middletown, IN 47356. You may express condolences or share a memory of Jim at www.ballardandsons.com.