Steven Michael Garrett

Some people leave behind memories; others leave behind a permanent imprint on the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know them. Steven Michael Garrett did both.

Born on March 10, 1952, in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, Steve lived a life defined by love, loyalty, strength and unwavering devotion to his family. He was the kind of man who made people feel safe simply by being there. Steady, dependable, and fiercely protective of the people he loved, Steve showed his family what true strength looked like, not through words alone, but through the way he lived every single day. He had a gift for making people laugh at exactly the right moment, for fixing almost anything, and for somehow making difficult days feel lighter. The lessons he taught were often unspoken but unforgettable: work hard, stay loyal, protect your family, and never give up.

Steve graduated from Pompton Lakes High School where he was an avid athlete and where he met the love of his life, Paula. Together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and unconditional love. From Vernon, NJ to Jacksonville, FL, Steve devoted himself wholeheartedly to the people who mattered most to him.

For over 20 years, Steve proudly served as a National Deployment Force supervisor for TSA before retiring in 2022. He carried the same integrity, dedication, and quiet leadership into his work that he carried into every aspect of his life.

To those who loved him most, Steve was far more than his accomplishments, he was home. Nothing brought Steve more joy than his family, especially his four grandsons, whom he absolutely adored. Whether he was teasing them, cheering them on, sharing stories, or simply spending time together, they brought an enormous light to his life, as he did to theirs. The love he had for them was endless and the bond they shared will forever remain a part of who they are.

Steve’s love lives on in the countless memories shared by those who knew him; at family gatherings, stories retold through laughter and tears and in the strength he passed down to the generations who adored him. His presence was larger than life and the void left by his passing is immeasurable.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Paula (Pittelkow); his daughters, Kimberly (Clark) Mains of Ulster Park, NY and Kelly Garrett of Jupiter, FL; grandsons, Christian, Carson, Landon and Stephen; sister Barbara (John) Glazar of Pompton Lakes, NJ; his mother-in-law, Helen Pittelkow; along with many loving sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his son, Steven Michael Garrett Jr; his mother, Wilma Buchalla; and his brother, Thomas Garrett.

Though our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful for the years, memories, laughter, and unconditional love Steve gave so freely. His legacy will continue to live on through every life he touched.

A Memorial Service to commemorate the life of Steven Michael Garrett will be held on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 at 11:00 am at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. A Celebration of Life will take place in New Jersey at a later date.

In lieu of flowers (the family is highly allergic), you are welcome to make donations in Steve’s memory to: Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1423 8th Avenue North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (https://bethlehemlutheranjaxbeach.org/give).