Gerald Garner

Gerald Sawyer Garner, age 86, of Somerset, Kentucky, passed away on June 11, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 30, 1939, to the late Earl Pratt and Polly Sawyer Garner, Gerald was a lifelong resident of Somerset and a man deeply rooted in faith, family, and community.

A proud retired member of the Army Reserve, Gerald honorably served his country during both the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. After his military service, he spent many dedicated years working at Crane Plumbing before retiring.

On September 23, 1961, Gerald married the love of his life, Joan Carolyn Branscum, and together they built a life full of devotion, joy, and shared purpose.

Gerald had a deep love for the simple joys in life-riding his motorcycle and horses, caring for his many animals, and collecting firearms. He was passionate about his family, his faith, and his church. A committed member of Beacon Hill Baptist Church, Gerald served faithfully as a deacon and found great joy in the fellowship of his church family. His love for Jesus Christ was at the very heart of his life.

He is survived by his daughters Kim (Arthur) Crawford and Amy (Gordon) Hotchkiss; his cherished grandchildren Kathryn (Spenser) Claiborne, Sarah (Dakota) Brown, Matthew (Gracie Broughton) Crawford, Griffin (Kelsey) Hotchkiss, Abbey (Jacob Hale) Hotchkiss, Riley (Claire) Crawford, and Grant Hotchkiss; and great-grandchildren Rex Claiborne, Leighton & Lainey Brown, and Grady Hotchkiss. He is also survived by his sister Jane (Wayne) Stephens, along with a host of other family members.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Joan Carolyn Garner; and his sisters, Delores (Bob) Curtis and Patsy (Arthur) Stringer.

A funeral service will be held at 1 PM Saturday, June 14, 2025 at the chapel of Pulaski Funeral Home with Bro. Sam Crawford officiating.

Burial will be in Lakeside Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends after 11 AM Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Pulaski Funeral Home.

Military Honors will be conducted by American Legion Post #38 Honor Guard.

Pulaski Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.