Essie Ilar "Slim" Garner

Benson, NC, Mrs. Essie Ilar “Slim” Johnson Garner, age 104, passed away on Friday, October 14, 2022 at her residence. Funeral Services will be 3:00PM-Monday, October 17, 2022 at Burnell Baptist Church, Four Oaks, NC.  Rev. Jesse Brock and Rev. Glenn McCullen will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Mrs. Garner was born on November 26, 1917 in Johnston County, NC to the late Miles Eason Johnson, Sr., and Effie Sanders Johnson. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Ollie Garner, siblings, William Johnson, Florence Massengill, John Henry Johnson, Susie Johnson, Vonnie Mae Blackmon, Lessie Capps, Esther Johnson Benson, and Justice Johnson, and half-brothers, Miles Eason Johnson, Jr., and Carl Johnson. Mrs. Garner was a retired nursing assistant, working in hospitals and nursing homes. Following retirement, Mrs. Garner was a caregiver until she was in her 90’s.  She was a lifelong member of Burnell Baptist Church, Four Oaks, NC.

Survivors include her daughters, Sally Jeannette Denning, and Hellon Inez Garner; grandson, Regan Cobb and wife, Kathy; great-granddaughter, Amber Cobb Holland and husband, Jeffrey; great-great-grandchildren, Kaegan, Peyton and Riley Holland; several nieces and nephews; special caregiver, Danyelle Graham. 

The family will receive friends from 2:00PM-2:45PM-Monday, October 17, 2022 at Burnell Baptist Church 3720 Old School Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524, and other times at the home of Regan Cobb 514 Denning Road, Benson, NC 27504.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home, Benson, NC.