WILMINGTON — Garrett Edwin Hough, 85, loving husband and father, passed away Monday, Feb. 10, 2020, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Born Oct. 17, 1934, in New York City to Edwin Joseph and Irene Phalen Hough, he was the oldest of four sons, Bobby (Ann) in Florida, who preceded him in death; Billy (Janice) of Lumberton; and Nettie (Gayetta) of Pennsylvania. Also surviving are a much-loved sister-in-law, Barbara J. Morris, and her husband, Dennis of New York and Florida.
On Nov. 4, 1961, Gary married the love of his life, Flo, who he called “Sunshine,” and they raised two daughters, Kelly-Ann and Colleen. In their 58 years of marriage, Gary and Flo stood together as a team. He is survived by one granddaughter, Cassandra Holz of New York; numerous cousins and other family members who he loved.
Always a devoted family man, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and, when discharged, he began a 30-year career with United Parcel Service, where he won many awards for outstanding service, including the Million Mile Award and no accidents.
Retiring in 1994, Gary and Flo moved to Wilmington and became active in the community. Gary was instrumental in the start-up of the truck driving school at Cape Fear Community College, where he taught classes. He was a long time member of St. Mark Catholic Church.
Always a man of honor and integrity, Gary valued family and friends, often regaling them with stories, philosophy and expressions of love; young and old, he loved them all. A man of superior intelligence, he took great pride in being an excellent provider, extremely honest, patriotic, generous, showing off his flower garden, listening to big band music and helpful to anyone in need.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Wilmington Funeral Chapel. A memorial Mass will be offered at 10:30 a.m., Monday, Feb. 17, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 1013 Eastwood Road, Wilmington. Inurnment will follow in the church columbarium.
In recognition of Garrett’s honorable and faithful service, the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard will present a rendering of military honors.
Share online condolences with the family at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.
