Dr. Ross D. Garrison, Sr. was born in Harden Bossier Paris, Louisiana on January 1, 1904 to the late Charlie and Lottie Garrison.  He attended public schools and colleges in Oklahoma - L.C.I. in Texas, Louisiana University, United Methodist College, Barack Seminar, Shreveport Louisiana.  He graduated from Gulfside, Wanlon, Mississippi in 1936.  He received several degrees - D.D., B.S., M.S., and 7 Ph.Ds in Theology.  He became a candy maker by trade in 1921.

He professed Christ and was baptized at the early age of 13 at the Mayflower Baptist Church., Sligo, Louisiana in August of 1917.  A man of great dedication, dreams and ambition, he traveled between the years 1928-1954, started & built 30 churches in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and California.  The prominent churches were - Mt. Zion Methodist Episcopal Church of Vanceville, Louisiana during 1936-1939, New Light Methodist Episcopal Church of Rockmount, Louisiana during 1936-1938, the Estuary Community Church of Alameda, California during 1947-1950, and the Good Samaritan Baptist Church, Inc. of Oakland, California during 1954-1982.  He served as Secretary to the Methodist Conference, Alabama; an active member for 38 years in the California Baptist State Convention where he served on various boards and committees.  He was also a member of the St. John Baptist Association where he served as Secretary, Board of Education, Advisor to the Nurses Guild, Board of Elders and other various committees.

On April 3, 1954, he was united in marriage to Verdie Lee Dokes who was a devoted and loving wife and mother to their 10 children.  She was his constant and loving companion. 

Dr. Ross D. Garrison, Sr. had a loving and caring spirit.  It was important to him to leave a smile on your face and in your heart.  He was well known by the community for his jolliness and dedication for the work of God.  During his last 20 years of illness, in and out of the hospital, he could be found walking, catching the bus or cab visiting other sick and shut-in.  

Dr. Ross D. Garrison, Sr. departed this life on May 15, 1985.