Jimmy Lee Garner

Jimmy Lee Garner, affectionately known as “Lil Jimmy,” was born on April 28, 1961, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to the late Laura Garner and Billy Gory. He was educated at the Charles Lea Center.

To know Lil Jimmy was to love him. He was a familiar face, a friendly voice, and a man with a heart of gold. He never met a stranger and found great joy in talking with people, checking on their well-being, and making sure those around him knew they were loved. His genuine kindness and warm personality made him a friend to everyone he encountered.

One of the most meaningful chapters of Lil Jimmy’s life was his special relationship with the Spartanburg City Fire Department. What began as childhood visits to the fire station blossomed into a lifelong bond of friendship, loyalty, and family. Over the years, he became a beloved fixture at the department, proudly wearing his uniform and earning the distinguished honorary title of Assistant Fire Chief. Lil Jimmy knew the firefighters by name, celebrated their promotions, and kept up with them even after they moved on to other positions or retired. The firehouse was his second home, and the men and women who served there became an extension of his family. His love for the department was matched by their love for him. Away from the firehouse, Lil Jimmy was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

In addition to his parents, Lil Jimmy was preceded in death by four brothers, Joe Lewis Garner, Bobby Garner, Dennis Garner, and Billy Ray Garner.

Left to cherish his loving memory are his sisters, Betty (Stinson) Hollis of the home and Jennie (Joyce) Garner of Spartanburg, SC; his brother, Tommy Garner of Boiling Springs, SC; his sister-in-law, Cora Garner of Spartanburg, SC; his extended family at the Spartanburg City Fire Department; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

On the evening of Sunday, November 1, 2026, Lil Jimmy transitioned from this earthly life at Spartanburg Medical Center. Though his familiar face, warm conversations, and loving spirit will be deeply missed, his legacy of friendship and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He wore his uniform with pride, served with love, and found a family within the firehouse. Honorary Assistant Chief Jimmy Lee Garner will forever hold a special place in the heart of the Spartanburg City Fire Department.