Mr. Rico Denard Garner-- a son, father, nephew, cousin and friend--entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 5, 2021. Rico was born Dec.16, 1973 in Winston-Salem, N.C. to Pamela W. Garner and the late Preston D. Johnson. He graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1992, and attended North Carolina Central University in Durham, N.C. Rico grew up attending New Light Missionary Baptist Church where he served as an usher and sang on the youth choir. If there was an award for "Best Dressed Baby," Rico would have won the prize. He was always dressed to impress wearing baby suits, suspenders, double-breasted jackets, trench coats and hats. You could always count on him for a smile and his recognizable laugh. Rico often talked about his love of the Lord, and recently expressed his desire to find a church home. He enjoyed old school music and would often post old hip hop music videos on his social media pages. Rico also enjoyed sharing old family photos and expressing his love for family. A recent post said, "Thank you Lord for your grace and mercy, plus my beautiful family."
Rico leaves to cherish his memories a daughter, Symone Elyse Kelly of Norfolk, Va., mother, Pamela W. Garner of Rural Hall, four aunts, Vickie (Roger) Roseborough, Diana Garner, Tammy (Clarence) Mack, of Winston-Salem, N.C. and Harretta Duncan of High Point, N.C.; six uncles, Willie D. Garner, Gregory Garner, Carnell Garner, Craymon (Sandra) Garner, Charles E. Robinson of Winston-Salem, N.C.; and Gene (April) McConneaughey of Charlotte, N.C.; dozens of cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends. A public viewing will be held Thursday, March 11, 2021 from 1pm until 5pm at Douthit's. A private funeral services will be held Friday, March 12, 2021. Arrangements are in the care of Douthit Funeral Service.