CJ Garland

Obituary

CJ Garland, born February 27, 1976, in Tampa, Florida, passed away on May 24, 2026. He was the beloved son of Karen Lea Bashline and Chester James Garland. The eldest child of four, with 2 younger brothers and a younger sister who cherished and thought the world of him. They always had his back and gave unconditional love throughout all life’s hard lessons. Just like he always had theirs whether they were in the right or wrong. He was their biggest cheerleader and inspiration. He took pride in the Big brother role. CJ had the best sense of humor and could make even the most serious person laugh. His quick wit, infectious smile, and positive outlook made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. No matter what challenges life presented, he always seemed to find the bright side and encouraged others to do the same. He was a unique original and there will never be anyone like him. A gifted problem solver, CJ took pride in his work building data rooms and organizing complex wiring systems with precision and care. He had a talent for fixing what others could not figure out or even begin to attempt to figure out and approached every challenge with determination, creativity, and intelligence. He was a jack of all trades and could do anything and everything he put his mind to. Those who knew him often described him as a genius. Long before smart homes became common, CJ was already turning ideas into reality and embracing technology

in ways that were years ahead of their time. Outside of work, CJ enjoyed fishing, playing Xbox, grilling good food, and spending time with family and friends. He believed in keeping life simple (or inventing brilliant technical ways to simplify life), enjoying the moment, and finding joy wherever he could. He always tried to make the best of every situation and circumstance. His laughter, stories, and easygoing non-judgemental nature made every gathering a little warmer and every day a little brighter. He was a lot of people’s go-to for answers, advice, or help with work or life related situations. Above all else, CJ loved his children. Though life’s circumstances (baby mamas) made it difficult to spend as much time with them as he would have liked, they remained forever in his heart. He was proud of Joey, Madison, and Chase, and his love for them never stopped. CJ’s legacy is one of resilience, humor, intelligence, and love. He taught those around him that problems can be solved, that life’s not that serious, that laughter can heal, and that a positive attitude can carry a person through even the hardest times. Our hearts are so heavy with his loss, but we will try to find comfort in the memories he gave us, the lessons he taught us, and the love he shared. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. CJ was preceded in death by his younger brother, Nick Garland, whom he loved dearly. He leaves behind his loving mother, Karen Lea Bashline, and stepfather, George Bashline; his father who he was very close to Chester Garland, and stepmother, Nilda Garland; his sister, Michelle Garland, and brother-in-law, Mike Bohannon; his niece, Gracie, and nephew, Abel; his brother, Adam Garland, and nephew, Matthew; his half-sister Keona Garland; and his cherished children, Joey, Madison, and Chase. He also leaves behind an array of cousins, close friends, and countless people whose lives were brighter because they knew him.