Garry Davis Covington was born to the late Haywood William Covington and Tressie Bennett Covington on July 19, 1955, and departed this life on December 6, 2023, at the age of 68.
He was a passionate and talented musician who touched the lives of many with his extraordinary musical talent and warm spirit. He accepted Christ at an early age and joined Brown Creek Baptist Church where he discovered his love for music by serving diligently on the choir. He later joined Saron Missionary Baptist Church where he played guitar and sang with the Sons of Saron. He started attending Harvest Ministries where he continued to use his gift of music.
Throughout his musical career, he made significant contributions to the music industry, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. Garry was a gifted guitarist known for his incredible ability to connect with people through his music. Whether he was performing on stage, composing original pieces, or teaching or teaching others, his dedication and love for music were always evident. His performances were captivating, and his music had the power to uplift and inspire audiences from all walks of life. During his musical journey, he played and sang with numerous groups (TCB, Collins Connection, The Vandells, Trans-Local Express, Back 2 Basic Band, Tru-Unity, The Mixx, The Gospel Travelers, The Singing Stars, The Voices of Harmony, New Arrival and Carolina Country Band).
In addition to his musical talent, Garry was also admired for his kindness, humility, and generosity. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to aspiring musicians and was a mentor to many. His impact on the lives of those around him extended far beyond his music.
Garry was a 1973 graduate of Bowman High School and a 1977 graduate of Western Carolina University. He taught in the Anson County Public School system for many years: Anson County Challenge Academy, and Anson High School. Known for his unwavering commitment to his students, Garry created an environment where his students could express themselves freely and develop their unique abilities. Beyond his role as an educator, Garry was admired for his patience, grace, and his ability to make each student feel valued and supported. He went above and beyond to ensure every individual had a chance to thrive, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and the larger community. His commitment to inclusion and his ability to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and the families of his students. He served as an inspiration, showing that with patience, compassion, and understanding, everyone has the potential to succeed.
Garry was joined in holy matrimony to Evelyn Marie Covington and from that union, two children were born, Marcus and Allison.
Proceeding him in death were his parents; daughter, Karen Kirby; brother, Haywood T Covington; god brother, Rocky Byrd.
Left to cherish his memory and wisdom are daughter, Allison Covington, sons, Marcus (Iris) Covington and Cory Kirby. Twelve grandchildren: Rayna Chew, Caleb Henry, Deyshawn Henry, Julius Henry, Tierra Kirby, Emani Adams, DeAnthony Covington, Brianna Sellers, Keyonna Sellers, Brittiany Sellers, Kiara Sellers and Zahki Williams; one great-grandson Elijah Kirby; two sisters Lanette Hicks and Angie Huntley; one brother, Christopher (Andrea) Huntley, one brother-in-law, Thomas Hicks; three aunts: Sylvia Blocker, Annie Turner, and Daisy Covington; two uncles, Aaron Bennett and Lee Harvey (Carolyn) Collins, god-sister, Bonita Bowman; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Though he may no longer be with us, his music and memories will live on, serving as a reminder of the joy and beauty he brought into this world. Garry will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The Services to Honor the Life and Legacy of Mr. Covington will be on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 3:00pm, in the Chapel of Smith Funeral Home, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina. Interment will be private.
The Covington Family will greet family and friends on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 2:30-3:00pm at Smith Funeral. Home and at all other times at the family residence.
The public viewing will be on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 2:30-5:00pm at Smith Funeral Home.
The service will be streamed on Facebook on H.C. Smith Funeral Home.
Subrana Thompson sent Peace Lily for Mr. Garry Davis Covington - December 10, 2023
Our Deepest Condolences to the Covington family.
From Brenda, Bettye, Edith, Toolum and Lou: His Daughters Prayer Sisters
We love you all and are sending our deepest condolences. Cousin Amber and Family from Poughkepsie, NY
We love you all and are sending our deepest condolences from cousin Amber and family, Poughkepsie, NY
Garry was a great man of influence and a pleasure to talk with to many musicians like myself. Not only was in the high school class with my mother, but both his son was in school with me in 97 and daughter with my brother in 01. Praying for you all strength Marcus and Allison
So sorry about Garry's passing and you have my condolences. My faith in the Bible promise of a resurrection in Act 24:15 that we will see him again in the future!
Mr & Mrs John Turner
I've known Garry since childhood. We rode the same bus to school from elementary to high school; both graduating in the class of 1973. Since then, I've seen him yearly in church (at Parson Grove Baptist Church) as he and his fellow musicians played for our CASON TRIO anniversaries. Each time we contacted him, he was willing to serve and was always there. My heartfelt condolences to the entire Covington families. Angela Cason Collier
We are sorry for the loss of your love one. May God continue to bless the family. Callie & Susan Little
Marie, Marcus, Allison, Lanette and the entire family you have our deepest condolences. Charles and Carol
Lynette and the Covington Family. My prayers and sympathy in the death of Garry. Those days at Henry Grove Elementary School, Lilesville will never be forgotten. Continue to Stay with GOD. Gilbert McRae, Charlotte, NC
Lynette and the Covington Family. My prayers and sympathy in the death of Garry. Those days at Henry Grove Elementary School, Lilesville will never be forgotten. Continue to Stay with GOD. Gilbert McRae, Charlotte, NC
Sending Our Deepest And Sincere Sympathy To The Covington Family You Are In Our Thoughts And Prayers A Classmate Of Haywood
The Covington Family Prayers and sympathy to Lynette and family in the death of Garry. I hold special memories of Haywood, Lynette and Gary growing up in Lilesville and particular Henry Grove Elementary School. Blessings and Peace🙏🙏
Best regards to the family.
Condolences to the Covington family. Gary was a talented guitarist, singer and nice guy. Mae Frances Ingram Teal
Remembering the family of Garry Davis Covington. God's love and grace are always with you. Please accept our condolences and may our prayers help comfort you. We're praying that the light of God's face shines on you in the darkness of your grief. Your loss deeply saddens us; may our prayers guide his soul to our Heavenly Father.
Dr. Joslyn Williams Allen
Sending prayers and condolences to the family Of Garry Davis Covington.
My condolences to the entire family of Mr. Garry Davis Covington. I was a schoolmate of his Brother "Haywood T. Covington" Bowman Senior High Class of 1969. - Delane Rorie
I've known Garry since I was 11 years old. He was so like-able and genuine. My condolences to Marie and their children. He will be greatly missed.
Sending my sincere condolences to the family of Gary Covington. So sorry for your loss. Brenda Merriman.
Dad, I will miss you. Love you always your Sunshine
Dad I will miss you, love always your Sunshine
Dad I will miss you, love always your Sunshine
Family, sorry does not seem like an appropriate word during this time of loss. We will keep the family lifted in prayer. We know this is a great loss for all of you. Gary will be sorely missed!! Eddie and Emily Maske
My Deepest Condolences to my family... God will get you through this time of hurt... just hold on and be strong... Amen... Unc Larry and Brother Larry
Praying for family~~ James & Brenda Maske
So sad to hear of his passing. Our continue prayers are with you at this difficult time. Chris Clemons Polk and the entire Clemons Family
I'm sorry for your loss.Annie Robinson and family.
My condolences to family Mae Richardson and Family
My condolences to the family Gary and I grew up together we were classmates and also attended church together continue to keep the family in prayer
Thinking of you at this time as you grieve the loss of your loved one. Look unto the hills for comfort and guidance at this time. I will continue to keep you in prayer. Thomasina Montgomery
I saw you on Monday. You looked so good, your smile so bright, so beautiful. We had little to say to each other but the love shared said it all. I loved you for a long time and you knew it and I will continue to love you as you will forever live in my heart. Bye for now my love, my friend, rest well. You are safe in the arms of our loving GOD......... Home at last. Minister Wanda Kay johnson
Praying for you Lynette & the entire family's comfort that God shall provide. We have been friends since childhood.
Caleb & Catherine Sturdivant
Garry was one of the most upbeat individuals that I have had the pleasure to know. He was talented, caring,and a light of positivity for all who had the opportunity to know him. During my time in Wadesboro, his family treated me as family. He was the little brother that I never had. He talent, love for others will be sorely missed..
Our deepest sympathy and prayers goes out to the Coverington family. Gary was a great person and a great friend, he never met a stranger he will truly be miss, my childhood friend. Wilbert and Gwen Willoughby
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.