Obituary of Joshua Nathaniel Garrison

Garrison Joshua Nathaniel entered this world on June 7, 1923 in Clara Maryland to Arthur Theodore and Maude Garrison. He was the middle child of six and with this close knit family of brothers and sisters at his side he always had big dreams. At age fifteen, Josh as he is affectionately known to friends and family joined President Roosevelt's Conservaition Core which helped young men to work and send money home to their families. While there he worked diligently and learned many valuable trades including radio operations. After leaving the CC camp Josh moved to Philadelphia and attended Phelps Vocational High School where he received his certification as an electrical technician. He turned his life to Christ at an early age and became a member of the Jane's Methodist Church in Philadelphia. He also was a lifelong member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Newtown, Maryland which his father helped to build and where he was raised in good faith. Josh enlisted into the Army/Air Force at the age of 20 where he served as an electrician's apprentice and was awarded the good conduct medal. While in the service he met the love of his life, Juanita Morris. They were married in 1946. From this union they were blessed with two daughters, Brenda Ellen who preceded her father in death and Camille Renee. Josh began working at the Philadelphia Naval Base in 1942 as an electrical technician and retired after 40 years of service. While employed at the naval base he was sent on numerous trips around the country to work on aircraft carriers and their electronic and radio operations. He was also responsible for working On the USS New Jersey which sits docked in Camden, NJ. He also became one of the first black supervisors while on the job and championed for equal opportunities in the workplace. He moved his family to Burlington, NJ in 1976 right across the street from his big brother Spencer. While living here he became a member of the LaGorce Square civic association where he served as financial treasurer for many years. He was also an active member and supporter of the Democratic Club. Joshua was known by many names, Josh, Nate, Nathaniel, Daddy, Poppy, Poppop, but one of our favorites was to call him Inspector gadget. In true McGuyver like fashion he could fix anything with a piece of duct tape, and a rubber band, The most important things he fixed will be what he will be missed the most, He fixed boo boo's, broken hearts, and could always fix any problem with his kind, loving, and generous nature. With a broad smile and an even bigger sense of humor he leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife of 65 years Juanita of Burlington Twp. NJ., his loving daughter, Camille Diaz of BurlingtonTwp. NJ. Camille's companion and special friend and crossword buddy to Josh, Vladimir Plantic of Burlington Twp. NJ, his son in law, Warren Hewitt (Brenda) of Silverspring, Md., His grandson Larry Blassingame (Lisa) of Silverspring, Md., His Granddaughters, Enjolie Pearl of Mt. Laurel, NJ and Kristyn Hewitt of Silverspring Md., and three Great Grandchildren, Raine Hewitt of Silverspring, Md., Asher Hewitt of Silverspring,, Md. and Claire Blassingame of Silverspring, Md. He also leaves behind a sister-in-law, Julia Garrison (Spencer) His mother, father, and five brothers and sisters have all preceded him in death. Joshua also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends to carry on his goodness.