Garnet Rachel Wilson Grissom, of West Columbia, SC, spent her final hours surrounded by her loving family and peacefully passed away on January 28, 2025. She was born on October 10, 1943, in Magnolia, North Carolina, to Francis and Evalyn Wilson. One of ten children, Garnet spent her childhood playing with her siblings, listening to stories from her grandparents, and caring for her beloved pet goat, Heidi.

At a young age, she developed a strong interest in healthcare, which led to a fulfilling career in nursing. She attended nursing school in Wilmington, where she became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and worked in both the Pediatric and Emergency departments, making a meaningful impact on many lives. As she grew older, she continued to volunteer her time, helping those who were injured or sick.

After marrying, Garnet welcomed her first child, Gina, in 1965, followed by Christopher in 1967 and Matthew in 1976. She treasured family moments, from preparing delicious meals and cakes to taking beach vacations, where the family created unforgettable memories.

The greatest moment in Garnet’s life was her baptism as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on April 4, 1954, in New York. She devoted much of her life to preaching and sharing her faith with others through the door-to-door ministry, on the street, and during her daily errands. Her reputation for boldness and fearlessness was a source of encouragement and inspiration to all who knew her.

Garnet is survived by her three children: Gina Toney (Brian), Christopher Grissom (Simone), and Matthew Grissom; five grandchildren: Benjamin Grissom, Alexandra Toney, Dane Grissom, Hannah Talarico (Dan), and Ethan White; and seven siblings: David Wilson (Ruth), Timothy Wilson, Eunice Sosa (Louie), Philip Wilson (Nina), Becky Dorminey, Martha Wilson, and Stephen Wilson (Peggy). She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones. In addition, she leaves behind her precious grand-dogs, who brought her great comfort and a lot of laughter: Tucker, Marshall, Rudy, Finley, and Rizzo.

She was predeceased by her parents, Francis and Evalyn Wilson, and two siblings: Deborah Johnson and Mark Wilson.

Though Garnet will be greatly missed, we take comfort in the words from 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17: “Moreover, may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and gave everlasting comfort and good hope by means of undeserved kindness, comfort your hearts and make you firm in every good deed and word.” May we all find peace as we remember her with love.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3679 Leaphart Road, West Columbia, SC. The family invites all who knew her to join them in honoring her memory and celebrating her life.

South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Family and friends may sign the online guest book by clicking on the “Tribute Wall” tab above.

Memorial Keepers (1)

Margaret Bonnadell Clerget