CSM (R) Peter J. Garretson III

Command Sergeant Major (R) Peter J. Garretson, III, 54, passed away on Monday, 11 March 2024 at St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, Austin, TX. He was the husband of more than 30 years to Crystal and dad to Jacy, Brianna, and Christina.

Born on 21 September 1969 in York, PA, he was the son of the late Peter J. Garretson, Jr. and his surviving mother, Patricia B. Garretson.  After graduating from High School in 1987, PJ or Red, as he became known, enlisted into the Army and had an astounding career that spanned 29 years and 29 days, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major on 1 October 2016.  During this timeframe, he met Crystal.  Although, good and bad days, their marriage lasted until Death did them part.  The Love that bonded them together was like no other.  I am Yours and You are Mine, Forever!  In 2002 he gave his life to God and never looked back.  He led his family with the strength of the Lord out front and feared no one when it came to protecting them.  After settling down in Copperas Cove, TX, we had many plans to finally live for us.  We were inseparable even to the last breath he took as I laid beside him.  Red’s greatest fear was that he was never enough or did enough for his family or anyone he came to admire.  He always gave everything to the Army and his family.  What he is leaving behind will be a true testimony that he did a job well done, oh Faithful Servant.

PJ/Red is survived by his wife of Copperas Cove, TX, Crystal, daughters, Jacy of San Angelo, TX, Brianna of San Marcos, TX, Christina of the home, and five Grandchildren, Immanuel (Manny), Dinaha (Judy), Michael Jr. (Mackey), Zelda (ReRe), and Alianna (Harpo).  His mother of Picayune, MS, Patricia B. Garretson, his sister also of Picayune, MS, Melissa and her husband Tom.  Red’s extended family, The Ball Clan and one uncle of Delaware, Chris Garretson.

He is preceded in death by his father, Peter J. Garretson Jr, his grandmothers, Jessie B. Garretson and Lillian (Dolly) Bruder, and his In Laws, Alfred and Mary Ball.