Collection Title: Bill Garrett Collection
Series Number: MS25-02
Processed and Cataloged by: Susan White
Date Listed: September 15, 2025
Date Span: 1945-2011
Size of Collection: 18.6 linear feet
Number of Boxes: 7 oversized document cases
Type of Material: Photographs, portraits, pamphlets, plaques, and memorabilia
Condition of Material: Good.
Arrangement: None
Biographical / Historical Information: Bill Garrett grew up in Gleason, TN and served as a tank gun operator during WWII. During which, he fought in the Battle of the Bulge, the capture of the Bridge at Remagen, and received several military honors, including a presidential citation from President Roosevelt. He attended Murray State University after his time in the military, marrying his wife Merry, in 1949, and graduating with a degree in Agriculture. After moving to Florida, Garrett became an agricultural business entrepreneur in the citrus industry, also working jobs in fertilizer, farm equipment, and real estate. During his later years, Garrett offered one of the largest estate gifts in Murray State University history as a donation towards the Hudson School of Agriculture and veterinary sciences. The Bill and Merry Garrett Agriculture Education and Research Center was named in his and his wife’s honor.
Scope and Content: Collection consists of framed portraits of Bill Garrett and associates, along with several personal photographs and pieces from the Bill and Merry Garrett Agriculture Education and Research Center dedication. Also included are several WWII medals, a 9th Remagen Pin, and Cap Lapel.
Subject Headings / Descriptors:
Garrett, Bill -- Agriculture
WWII -- Honors
Photographs -- George Patton
Bill and Merry Garrett Agriculture Education and Research Center
