Tommy James Garner Jr.
Obituary

Tommy James Garner Jr. was born on December 16, 1958, in Albany, Georgia. From a young age, his faith was deeply rooted—nurtured by living next door to the 1st AME Zion Church, which sparked a spiritual journey that would last a lifetime.

Tommy’s leadership and charisma were evident early on. He was proudly crowned Homecoming King at Los Angeles High School in 1976, graduating the following year. He went on to attend California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where he joined Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in 1978. His commitment to excellence and representation was recognized in the CSUN Sundial on October 20, 1981, noting his nomination as the university’s first African American Homecoming King. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from CSUN in 1981.

Despite enduring and overcoming two serious accidents during his life, Tommy remained resilient. He channeled his energy into security work and ministry, dedicating his life to serving others and God.

Tommy’s greatest pride and joy came from being a father figure. He played a loving and active role in the lives of Kamya, Daryl, Devin (twins), Dyniesha, Kanin and honorary nieces Lizet and Lulu Hernandez—never missing a birthday, holiday, or school event. His consistent presence and boundless support earned him the reputation within his family as “that guy”—always reliable, always loving.

Known affectionately as "Papa" by children and “Guatemalan” by adults, Tommy's vibrant personality made an unforgettable impression on everyone he met. He found joy in helping others, organizing gatherings, sharing meals, and dancing. His generosity, honesty, and direct yet compassionate nature were among his most defining traits. He offered encouragement rooted in truth and love, and he never hesitated to put others before himself.

Later in life, Tommy was baptized and became a devoted member of his church, remaining active in his faith until his passing.

Tommy passed away on June 6, 2025, in Los Angeles, California, after a courageous battle with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis. His legacy is one of deep love, unwavering faith, and selfless service.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Tommy James Garner Sr. and Evelyn "M" Garner. He is survived by his twin brother, Willie De Garner (Texas); brothers Bobby Garner, Michael Garner, and Troy Garner (Los Angeles); sisters Evelyn Patricia Garner-Moore (Oakland) and Tammy Denis'ia Garner (Hawthorne); his aunt, Menora Garner; and cousins Leon Thompson and Brian Miller (Los Angeles).

To know Tommy was to love him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his big heart, his steadfast faith, his devotion to family, and the countless lives he touched.  

He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy of love and sacrifice, his loving devoted family, the Hernandez family, along with a host of devoted nieces, nephews, distant cousins, friends, god kids Blue Phi Fraternity and neighbors.  

Memorial services will be held on July 19th, 2025, at the Crenshaw United Methodist Church, located at 3740 Don Felipe Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90008. The services will be held from 12PM-4PM.

The Garner Family would like to express their gratitude for all the love, concern, and kindness shown to us during this time of bereavement. We truly appreciate whatever it was that you did to lift our spirits. Thank you so much.