Leslie Rae Garrett

Leslie Rae Garrett, 67, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. Born September 24, 1956, in Dallas, Texas, Leslie was the youngest daughter of Charles Ray Smith and Peggy Joyce White Smith.

Leslie spent the majority of her life in Dayton, Texas, where she lovingly raised her children and built a home filled with love and laughter. For 35 dedicated years, Leslie served the community as a steadfast employee of the Liberty Post Office, where she served as the Union steward, and remained a proud member of the National Association of Letter Carriers, Branch 283. Her commitment and reliability made her a beloved colleague to many.

 A woman of faith, Leslie was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Dayton and continued her spiritual journey upon relocating to Galveston, where she found community and solace in the family of the First Baptist Church of Galveston. She had a zest for life that manifested in her love for dancing, especially after taking dance lessons, and her passion for music. Being by the water brought her immense joy, making her time at the beach truly cherished. Time traveling provided special memories to Leslie.

Leslie's warm spirit and infectious humor brightened the lives of those around her. She had a deep affection for Christmas, embracing the festive season with enthusiasm, and had a weakness for chocolate and ice cream, which brought her simple pleasures.

Above all, Leslie adored her family. Her children, Kyle Garrett (Tyna) and Stephanie Welder (Duncan), were the center of her world. She was a proud grandmother to Ashlei-Nichol Hight (Tiffany), Camron Garrett, Jackson Welder (Ashley), Caitlyn Welder, Carys Welder, Morgan Garrett, Aric Welder, and Bowie Welder, and great-grandmother to Ella Welder. Leslie also leaves behind her brother Owen Smith (Sue Ann), sister Sydney Harris, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Leslie Rae Garrett was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law, Wayne Harris. Her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will be forever cherished by those who knew her.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 15, 2024, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at Pace Stancil Funeral Home, Dayton, followed by a service at 4:00 p.m. at the same location. On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, Leslie will be laid to rest at 1:00 p.m. at Laurel Land Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, where she will find eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a local food bank.