James Austin Garrison, affectionately known to family and friends as “Pungun,” passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2026.
James was born in October 27, 1939, to his loving parents, Austin and Opal Garrison, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Poca High School in 1957 and soon afterward joined the United States Air Force, where he served for four years.
Following his military service, James married the love of his life, Sharon Legg Garrison. They had been married for 62 years and had one daughter, Sherri McGrew who is married to their son-in-law, Troy McGrew of Beaufort SC. James and Sharon were blessed with 4 grandchildren Isaiah McGrew of Raleigh NC, Hannah McGrew of Nashville TN, Micah McGrew (Kaden) Meeks of Red House WV, and Selah McGrew of Beaufort, SC.
James was an instructor of Heating and Air Conditioning at the Putnam County Technical Vocational Center in Eleanor, West Virginia for more than 20 years.
A lifelong supporter of the Poca Dots, James was a fixture at Poca High School football games, serving as the down-marker operator for more than 40 years and operating the clock at basketball games.
He enjoyed rabbit hunting, raising beagles, and being outdoors in his spare time.
James was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Barbara Bittle; and members of his extended family, including his parents-in-law James and Sibyl Legg, sister-in-law Sue Legg, brother-in-law Chick Noffsinger, brother-in-law Garry Legg, and sister-in-law Rhonda Legg.
In addition to his wife, Sharon, and daughter Sherri and son-in-law Troy, he is survived by his sisters, Melva Fisher, Velma Christy and her husband, Jamie, his sister-in-law, Kay Noffsinger; brothers-in-law Butch Legg, Rick Legg (Martha), Rev. Jim Legg (Pam), Barry Legg, and Mike Bittle; sister-in-law Pixie Legg; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
James attended Bancroft Church of God Mission and Coosawhatchie Baptist Church in Beaufort SC.
James will be remembered and missed by all who knew and loved him.
A celebration of Life Service will be held at 2pm, Saturday, June 27 at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with former students and Pastors Larry Cooper and Brian Haber officiating. Entombment will follow at Haven of Rest Memorial Gardens, Red House. The family will receive friends from 12:30-2 at the funeral home.
