Katie Mae Garrett of Rockford was born Katie Mae Ellis, July 9, 1930 in West Point, Mississippi the daughter of Mose and Leeoma Ellis. Katie lived in Rockford since 1970 coming from Chicago. Katie was united to her first husband, Johnny Lee Loyd, March 21, 1952, of this union seven children were born; he preceded her in death. She later united with John William Garrett, February 18, 1979 and to this union one son was born, he preceded her in death. Katie was employed as a machine operator by Warner Lambert before retiring.  She accepted Christ at an early age and continued to serve the Lord until she passed, on June 28, 2024. She was a member of New Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, serving on the Nurses Guild. Katie attended schools in Mississippi. Katie was a loving wife and dedicated mother. She enjoyed gardening and cooking.

Katie leaves to cherish many loving memories, two daughters, Velora Johnson and Lena McKnight; six sons, John Loyd, Albert Loyd, Ricky (Luratha) Loyd, Michael (Diana) Loyd, Milton Loyd, and Anthony Loyd; 18 grandchildren; a host of great grandchildren; step children, Ruthie (Richard) Parker, and Janie Gant; three sisters, Hannabelle Summers, Lillie Bradley and Mosella Bradley; four brothers, Mose Ellis Jr., Isaiah Ellis, James Ellis and Henry (Linda) Ellis; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her, husbands, parents; step children, Sherman Garrett, Monique Moody, Perry and John Williams and Pamela Garrett; grandchildren, Brianna, and  Jon Loyd and George Thomas; daughters in law, Kathy, Ann and Denise Loyd; two sisters, Mary Jones and Mattie Mitchell; and brother Eddie Ellis.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2024 at  Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.  Burial in Willwood Burial Park. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service