Eric Garner

Eric "Skip" Garner, 75, of Hopedale passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with his daughters by his side.

Eric grew up in Woodville, in Hopkinton and later worked as a logger (and self-proclaimed “lumberjerk”) at Garner Brothers Sawmill with his three brothers, Gary, Bruce and Karl. 

He loved being outside, feeding the birds and gardening, telling you which house lots he cleared and having a great conversation over a good meal. He enjoyed reading science fiction and fantasy books, playing cribbage, watching Westerns and listening to 70s rock. 

Eric was the epitome of a hard worker. He'd work long hours and then go cheer on his daughters at their sporting events, help neighbors, friends and loved ones or get up early on Sundays to make epic breakfast feasts. He will be remembered for his unmatched loyalty, work ethic, his incredible beard and gentle nature. 

Eric was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Garner of 48 years. He was fiercely loyal and protective of her until the very end. 

He is survived by his daughters; Renee Christie and husband James of Blackstone as well as Samantha Garner and partner Eric Reed of Norwood; his beloved grandchildren, Cole and Connor Christie; his three brothers, Gary Garner of Hopedale, Bruce Garner and wife Claudia of Rangely, ME, and Karl Garner of Uxbridge. He was Uncle Eric to his many nieces and nephew. He was the mighty protector and voice of reason for all his loved ones.

There will be a celebration of life at Woodville Rod and Gun Club (252 Wood St, Woodville, MA 01784) on Sunday, May 31st at 1pm. Burial with be handled privately by the family at a later date.

Donations in his memory may be given to Yosemite Conservancy or your favorite nature preserve. But what the family would really like is for people to pay it forward and treat others with the kindness that Eric showed the world. 

The family wishes to thank Advinia Care 1st floor staff for their wonderful care.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Eric Garner, please visit our floral store.