During the January Laurel School District Board meeting, Marian Allen, BS, MSW, LMSW, GAL, made a request to the board on behalf of graduates of Laurel High School (R.H. Watkins) and the community to name the gym at the
high school the Coach Lee Garner Court.
According to information provided, Coach Garner and his wife, Lillie, lived in Laurel for more than 50 years and both taught in the Laurel School system – first at Oak Park and then at R.H. Watkins.
In 1952, Lee became a member of the famous Harlem Globetrotters and traveled all over the country and throughout the world entertaining crowds with his talents. He remained with the team until 1958. Recognized as one of the tallest players, he was fortunate to play with the team at the height of their popularity.
Occasionally, Coach Garner could be seen casually spinning a basketball on his first finger while watching his team practice.
He and his wife were both beloved by many of their students . . . this reporter included.
The board voted unanimously to name the court in honor of Coach Garner.