Joan B. Garrett

December 3, 1937 – April 7, 2026

Joan B. Garrett, a beloved mother, grandmother, and gifted musician, passed away on April 7, 2026, at the age of 88. She resided in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was born on December 3, 1937, in Houston, Texas.

Joan dedicated her life to music and to sharing her remarkable talent with others. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Indiana University in 1960 and continued her studies with postgraduate work at the University of New Mexico.

Her musical career was both accomplished and inspiring. As a young performer, she appeared as a soloist on the Ed Sullivan Show in Houston in 1956. She later served as a soloist at Christ Unity Church in Albuquerque and performed with the Albuquerque Civic Light Opera from the late 1970s into the 1980s. Her performances included roles in beloved productions such as Fiddler on the Roof and The Sound of Music, reflecting her passion for the Golden Age of musicals.  Joan’s greatest joy was teaching and mentoring others in music. She shared her knowledge and passion as a music educator at Española High School and Hope High School in New Mexico. She also founded and operated her own teaching studios, Garrett’s School of Piano & Voice and Joanie’s School of Music, where she influenced and inspired countless students over the years.

Joan is survived by her children, Chuck Edwards, Cliff Garrett, and Paul Garrett; and her grandchildren, Owen Garrett, Ava Garrett, Adam Garrett, and Miranda Garrett. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her music, kindness, and dedication.  

A viewing and celebration of life will be held at Trujillo Family Funeral Home Chapel on May 1, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend and honor her memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring and compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"