Augustita So Garay Lynn, “Tita”, age 40, of Port Washington, WI and Atlanta, GA, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2016 due to complications of her asthma at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, GA.
Tita was born on July 7, 1975 in Milwaukee, daughter of Augusto Galan and Fema So Garay. She grew up in Port Washington and attended St. Mary’s Parochial School. After graduating University School of Milwaukee, Tita received her bachelor’s degree in English from Marquette University. She later received a second degree from the Art Institute of Chicago. From 2004, Tita taught high school art in the DeKalb County School District in Atlanta.
Tita was a dedicated teacher, and students who were close to her said that she was like a mom to them. Her passion for the arts and her care for many underprivileged students in urban areas led her to start an after school art program at Lithonia high school. Later in life, she worked privately to tutor special needs students in Ozaukee County.
She will be remembered as a loving mother, daughter and friend. Her devotion to her family was at the core of her existence. Tita spent countless hours teaching her children and young adults how to read, write, and draw. To Tita, art was a form of manifesting the inner workings of her heart and imagination.
Her eternally youthful spirit led her to take Tae Kwon Do in her thirties with her children. She encouraged the breadth of their education beyond standard curriculum, and she fostered a sense of security and discipline in life for them through the martial arts.
In her youth, Tita enjoyed fishing on Lake Michigan and smaller lakes in Wisconsin. She often fished earlier than the break of daylight and delighted in the beauties of the Port Washington harbor. Wherever she lived, she was never without pictures of her hometown. As a community and a city, Port Washington has always had the power of bringing her peace and tranquility.
Tita is survived by her children Dylan and Gabriella; her parents, Augusto and Fema Garay of Port Washington, her sister Rufina Garay of Sheboygan; her brother, Augusto Garay of Decatur, GA and their respective families.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11AM Saturday, January 30, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 430 N. Johnson Street, Port Washington. Father Patrick Wendt will be the celebrant. Family will receive friends after 10AM Saturday AT CHURCH prior to Mass. All are welcome to a luncheon on Saturday after the Mass at the St. Mary’s School Hall. Interment will occur at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Port Washington following the luncheon. Memorials on behalf of the children’s education are appreciated.
In continuing her strong faith of helping others, Tita gave the gift of life through organ donation.
POOLE FUNERAL HOME/Crematory, Port Washington, WI assisting the family. Information and condolences available at www.poolefh.com or 262/284-4431
Ms.lynn I miss you so much I graduated in 2010 but I will never forget your sweet spirit such a kind hearted person every time I think of you I’m thinking of nice things your truly missed. Until we meet again rest in peace😇
As a former student, I can vividly remember how badly some of the students would treat her. I feel deep sympathy for this kindhearted woman, and it’s a shame she passed so young. Rest in peace Ms. Lynn
Our most deepest sympathy to Augusto, Fema and family. How fondly I remember Tita. This sweet child brought delight every week just by walking through the door for her piano lesson. The pain of her loss cuts deep and everyone who knew her knew that she had a specialness about her that will now be truly missed. However she remains in heart.
To the Garay family, I extend my deepest sympathies. Tita was a wonderful person and a part of so many of my happy childhood memories.
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Garay you have been a part of bringing life to so many families in the area, my thoughts and prayers. Are with you and your whole family at this difficult time. God bless.
Jill bloedow anzia
I only met Tita once (at the library) and we had a play date with Dylan & Gabby when she moved back to Port. Her spirit and enthusiasm was inspiring. Prayers for family and friends. May you be blessed with strength and comforted by memories as you celebrate Tita’s life, surrounded by loved ones during this difficult time.
My heart is with you all at this horrible time. So very sorry for the loss of Tita. May she rest in sweet peace.
Jackie Vanden Heuvel (Wach)
To the Garay family, my deepest sympathy. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God give you strength. Love, Bonnie Budrick (Even)
You will be missed Tita..RIP… from the Garay in LA.