Mary Garrett

In 1961, Mary (nee Simpson), married Harry Garrett, Jr. (deceased 2010), a fellow student whom she met in college. The couple arrived in Bedford, Virginia, expecting to stay one year. As fate would have it, one year grew to 55. Harry opened a law practice that quickly reached the level of success he wanted and the family increased to include sons Walker, Carter, Clay, and Tom. Today, the Garrett clan includes three daughters-in-law and seven grandchildren ranging in age from 9 to 16.

Mary had grown up in Salem, Virginia, with one brother and two sisters. In 1954, she graduated from Andrew Lewis High School and went on to the University of Richmond. In 1958, she finished with a B. A. and endorsements for teaching history and math. For three years, Mary worked as a teacher in the Henrico County and Chesterfield County School Systems.

Once in Bedford, and for the next 25 years, she focused on the responsibilities of parenthood. Mary returned to teaching in 1986, this time at Jefferson Forest High School in 

Bedford County, where, until her retirement in 1999, she again taught history and math. Once back in the classroom, Mary decided to pursue a master’s degree in education and proudly holds an M.Ed from Lynchburg College.

For fun, recreation, and civic service, Mary worked for several years as a volunteer at the D-Day Memorial and Bedford Welcome Center. She joined the Bedford YMCA and plays golf at the Bedford Country Club. She also reads, gardens, and enjoys a good game of bridge. After completing her move to Westminster Canterbury, Mary plans to take advantage of the walking opportunities abounding on the WC campus. She will also work out in the Wellness Center and participate in some of WC’s exercise classes. A raised garden spot already has her name attached and she plans to cultivate a flower and vegetable garden, maybe not quite the same as her Bedford 20 ft. by 20 ft. plot, but large enough to satisfy her gardening interests.