Phillip Earl Garris, 68, of Edgewater, Florida, and formerly of Orlando, Florida, died at home Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Phillip was born March 11, 1956, on Langley Airforce Base to parents Phillip W. and Eve (Robertson) Garris.  During childhood, he lived in Spain with his parents, who also took him on many European trips.

He married his high school sweetheart, Stacy Schlagetter of Naperville, IL, on May 15, 2022.  Previously, Phillip was married to Natalie K. (Wells) Garris of Sorrento Florida, for 20 years.

Phillip was a graduate of Valencia College and continued his studies online at Athabasca University, Canada's Open University, along with continuing education at the University of Central Florida.

Phillip is survived by his wife, Stacy along with sisters, Molly Dean, her husband David Stelpstra, and Phyllinda Garris along with his niece, Madrina McCay, nephew Lew and his wife Karen Metzger, stepchildren Karen and Erik Anderson, ex-spouse Natalie K. (Wells) Garris, stepson Steven Wells and his wife, Erika Wells, and their children, great nephew Si McCay, cousins and other family members who reside in Ayden North Carolina and England.

He was a licensed general contractor, who owned and operated his own construction company, Empire Construction.  In retirement, Phillip enjoyed many hobbies, including buying and selling real estate and owning long term and short-term rental units.  In addition, he earned a license becoming a ham radio operator and created a popular podcast on iHeart radio.

Phillip had a huge heart and loved his family, friends, pets, and music. He was an animal lover and cherished his dogs Norman, Asa, Zeke, and Mick. The Rolling Stones, Beatles, Beach Boys, and Pink Floyd were a few of his favorite bands. Phil was an aviation, automotive, and history enthusiast. He enjoyed discussing these topics at length with his family and friends.

A celebration of life service is to be held in New Smyrna Beach, Florida in early 2025.  Burial will be private.

In Phillip's honor, donations would be appreciated to Friends of Canaveral National Seashore (386-428-3384 ext.221), American Cancer Society ( donate.cancer.org ), or a humane society such as Southeast Volusia Humane Society ( sevhumanesociety.org ).