Thomas “Bonka” Garrison (12-25-20)

Thomas Monroe “Bonka” Garrison, 71, of Clifton, died on Friday, Dec. 25, in Corinth, Mississippi.

He was born in Hickman, Kentucky, the son of the late Monroe Edwin and Frances Josephine Grissom Garrison. He was united in marriage to Elaine Phillips, who survives.

Mr. Garrison served his country for 22 years in the United States Marine Corps and was a Vietnam Veteran. During that time he traveled the world and served as crew chief on Marine One for President Carter and President Ford. He was a member of the American Legion, Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) and Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW). He was also a Scottish Rite Mason and Shriner.

After his retirement, he lived on the Tennessee River in Clifton.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Garrison of Clifton; son, Phillip Long of Clifton; three grandchildren ; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and one great-great-nephew.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Ruth Ann Cagle, Carroline Riley and Joe Ed Garrison.

No services.