William Roy Garren

William (Bill) Roy Garren, age 93, passed away at his home in Travelers Rest, SC on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Born in Hendersonville on April 15, 1931, he was preceded in death by his parents Earl V. and Dorothy D. Garren, his brothers Earl V. Jr. and Dr. Robert Garren. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patricia L. Garren, 8 nieces and nephews, 9 great nieces and nephews and one great great nephew.

Bill earned both Bachelor and Master or Science Degrees in Horticulture at Clemson University. After graduation he returned to Clemson as Extension Service Specialist in Ornamental Horticulture. His work for Clemson led to his service as consultant to the Governor's Mansion Landscape Committee and to County Extensions agents. 

Bill was one of the Southeast's leading horticulturists. Through his horticultural and business skills he left a distinctive imprint on the world-renowned Biltmore House and Gardens in Asheville, North Carolina. He worked successfully with the Estate's owner to make it a fully independent, self-sustaining entity. Having accomplished his mission at the Estate he returned to his thriving Mountain View Nursery business in north Greenville County where he grew some 300 varieties of azaleas and rhododendrons. Many of his plants can be found adorning the campuses of Furman and Clemson Universities as well as Greenville's Cleveland Park.

After his retirement he and his wife, Pat, achieved his life-long goal of touring every continent and traveling all five oceans which included many land tours and 67 cruises. 

The family is grateful for the caring and competent services provided by Interim Hospice. Services will be held at 3:00 on Sunday, December 1 at Cremation Society of South Carolina Westville Funerals located at 6010 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29611. The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:00 prior to the Memorial Service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Valley CRO, 20 High Bluff Court, Travelers Rest, SC 29690 and Interim Hospice of Greenville, 100 Verdae Blvd, Suite 300, Greenville, SC 29607.