It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Garrett Keith Peel, MD, MHS, FACS. A devoted father, son, brother, physician, and friend, Garrett’s loss leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved him. Although his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of service, compassion, and leadership endures in all the hearts he touched.

Born in Brownwood, Texas, in 1976, Garrett pursued life with passion and purpose, guided by determination and a deep calling to serve others. He knew early on that medicine would be his life’s work. He received his bachelor’s degree from The George Washington University, earned a Master of Health Science from Johns Hopkins University, and returned to The George Washington University to complete his medical degree. Garrett continued his general surgery training at the world-famous Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he served as Chief Resident. He later expanded his skills by becoming a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Throughout his career, Garrett combined clinical expertise with the ability to listen, connect, and comfort. He was led by his strong faith in God and would often pray with his patients before surgery, bringing a sense of peace that put fears at ease. Patients and colleagues will remember him not only for his skill as a surgeon, but for his gift of compassion and the calm he provided in difficult moments. These talents earned him numerous awards throughout his career, most recently The George Washington University School of Medicine Medical Alumni Association Student Achievement Award.

Not only was Garrett a distinguished doctor, but he cared deeply for his community. He served on the Board of Directors for several organizations including, at one time, the President of the Jefferson County Medical Society and Chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party. Early in his career, he was appointed as the Youth Coordinator for the 1996 Republican National Convention. He also traveled abroad during the ’98-‘99 war in Kosovo where he treated refugees during the conflict. Garrett’s love for service continued as he organized many charitable events, galas, fundraisers and tributes, including An Evening of Music at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts honoring U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch. In 2017, Garrett had the privilege of organizing events in Washington, D.C. for the 58th Presidential Inauguration of President Donald Trump. His influence extended far beyond the hospital, leaving a lasting mark on countless people and communities.

To his family, Garrett was a source of love, laughter, and pride. As a father, he cherished time with his five children, sharing with them a joy for life, creativity, music, beauty, and faith in God. As a brother, he was the cornerstone of family tradition, creating lasting memories. To his mother, he was a light that shined endlessly. Her unwavering witness to his spirit never ceased even at the very end. To friends, colleagues, and patients, he will be remembered for his generosity, boundless energy, and the way he inspired those around him to reach higher and care more deeply.

Garrett was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Keith Peel; and his grandparents, Clifford Dewitt and Velma Loraine Peel, and A.D. and Bettie Alice Stephenson. He is survived by his children, Blythe Aleece Lorain, Emsley Cora Kaydann, Blakellyn Lola Preston, Emrys Lauren Garrett and Travis Edward Farias whom he shared with their mother, Mandie Peel; his mother, Deborah Stephenson; his brother, John Blake Peel and his wife Vanessa; his sister, Kellyn Wilks and her husband Keith; and many nieces and nephews.

A service celebrating Garrett’s life will be held at the Smith Family Chapel in Austin, Texas, on October 11, 2025, at 2 p.m., with interment at Remembrance Gardens immediately following.

Smith Family Chapel/Remembrance Gardens: 4214 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746

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