Stanley Garris

In Loving Memory of Stanley Ronald Garris

Born: February 9, 1965
Passed Away: October 17, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stanley Ronald Garris, who left this earth on October 17, 2025.

Stanley was preceded in death by his beloved parents Nell Hook (née Crittendon) (2005) and stepfather John James Hook (2001), as well as James Dean Garris. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Timothy Ballard (2024), Alinka Garris (2003), and Cidgel Garris (2011), along with his stepbrother James Hook. We find comfort in knowing they are all together now—celebrating, reunited, and welcoming him with open arms.

He was also preceded in death by his daughter Julie (2016), who he loved very much.

Stanley is survived by his stepbrothers Michael (Loya) and Ossian (Myrna), stepsister Emmalina (Gary), and sisters Catherine (Greg) and Charlotte (Jeff). He leaves behind his children Keith Garris and Nicole Williams, and a host of grandchildren who will miss him dearly: Kaylee, Ryan, Cruse, Nova, Lorelei, Alayna, Kamra, Briana, Piper, and Nick. Stanley also leaves behind Tina, who he shared most of his life with.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Stanley moved to Northwest Indiana in the early 1990s, where he quickly made it his home.

Stanley had a free spirit and lived life entirely on his own terms. The stories he told often seemed too wild to be true—yet somehow, most of them were as true as he was speaking. His charismatic attitude and infectious laughter had a way of lighting up every room and keeping everyone around him in good spirits. He never met a stranger and made everyone he encountered feel like family. To Stanley, everyone was a brother, sister, niece, or nephew—blood never defined his love for others.

If you were hungry, he would share his last bite. If you needed a place to stay, he would give up his own bed. Stanley loved motorcycles, boating, spontaneous trips, and any adventure that called his name.

His passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who knew him, but his laughter, kindness, and unforgettable stories will live on forever.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Cremation Society of Indiana.

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