Olene Sheffield Garrison October 22, 1929 - March 30, 2026
Olene Garrison shared her gifts of healing, hard work, and art with all who knew her. Her love and smile will be greatly missed, but her memory will continue to bring joy to those fortunate enough to have been part of her life.
Olene passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, at the age of 96, at National HealthCare (NHC) in Johnson City, Tennessee, surrounded by loved ones. She will be remembered with deep love by her family and friends.
Born in Paragould, Arkansas, to Holly and Laura Sheffield, Olene was the third of five children. She earned her degree as a Registered Nurse from Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
On June 6, 1951, she married CF Garrison in Paragould, Arkansas. Together they made their home in Johnson City, Tennessee, where they raised their three children: Stephen, Karen, and Carl. Olene worked as an Operating Room Surgical Nurse at Johnson City Medical Center. After retirement, Olene and CF opened Custom Machine Quilting in Jonesborough, Tennessee. They were longtime members of Boone’s Creek Christian Church.
Olene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, CF Garrison, of 67 years; her brother, Leroy Sheffield; sisters, Frances Stuart and Bernice Wayland; and son-in-law, Patrick Heaton.
She is survived by her sister, Grace (Wayne) Carpenter; son, Stephen (Linda) Garrison; daughter, Karen Heaton; son, Carl (Debora) Garrison; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Colonial Hills Retirement Center and NHC of Johnson City, Tennessee, for their years of loving and compassionate care.
Olene and CF will be laid to rest together at VA Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boone’s Creek Christian Church, 2684 Boone’s Creek Road, Johnson City, TN 37615, or to the charity of one’s choice.
