Address
Locke on 4th
1519 W 4th St.
Waterloo, IA 50702
James M. “Jimmy” Garland, 70, of Waterloo, passed away at his home on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Born on December 6, 1955, in Waterloo, Jimmy was the son of Fred and Ramona (Pecenka) Garland. He graduated from West High School in 1974. Jimmy married Teresa Cook, and though they later divorced, they shared many meaningful years together.
Jimmy was the original owner of the Half Pint Saloon, where his vibrant personality and love for people made him a familiar and beloved face in the community. Known for living life to the fullest, Jimmy was truly one of a kind. He cherished good stories, great company, and life’s simple pleasures – from watching the Chicago Cubs and playing the drums to enjoying a cold beer, a friendly game of pool, or a day on the golf course. Jimmy had a passion for country music. He had it playing in the house from the moment he woke up until he went to bed. His favorite artist was Merle Hagard.
Wherever he went, laughter and life followed. His charisma was effortless, and his genuine spirit left an impression on everyone who met him.
He is survived by his stepson, Nathan “Slick” Garland Wolff of Culpeper, Virginia; his grandson, Ethan Wolff; his brothers, Jeff (Shelly) Garland of Waterloo and Brooke Schaefer of Michigan; his sisters, Judy (Ron) Opperman of Waterloo and Kathy Graham of Dunkerton; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John Garland.
Funeral services will be 12:00 pm, Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Ave., Waterloo. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Locke at Tower Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family. Celebration of Life will be at the Majestic Moon at 3:00pm.
Locke at Tower Park is assisting the family, 319-233-3146.
Funeral Service
April 4, 2026
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Locke at Tower Park
4140 Kimball Ave., Waterloo, IA
Visitation
April 4, 2026
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Locke at Tower Park
4140 Kimball Ave., Waterloo, IA
I am so very sad to hear this news. I was fortunate enough to run into Jimmy at NorthCrest on March 13. We had a nice visit and he said he was looking forward to going home the next day. Little did I know it would be the last time I got to listen to his special banter. I’m sure when he got to heaven his first words were Jimmy G is in the house. Rest in peace my friend.
So sorry for your loss, you have our deepest sympathys. Jimmy was a great guy..Rip Jimmy G.!!! His journey is over and now has gone HOME, to be with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!! In Jesus name, Amen!!
Years ago in golf we were the HALF PINT EXPRESS.HINNEY ME AND JIMMY G
Known Jimmy forever. Good lovable guy. Always fun to be around. Will miss you Jimmy
Jimmy was a great guy. Lived life and loved music. I had the privilege of knowing Jimmy these last 6 yrs. Rest my friend.
Jimmy G u r a great guy and good friend. Had so much fun playing pool and we golfed in tournaments together. The morning u died i shot a hole in 1.now I can’t help thinking. Did u have something to do with that.The last time we talked you said there wasn’t many of the old gang left.I only hope you are with all of them now
Jimmy was a good friend loved hearing him play his drums when him and Teresa opened Little John’s Restaurant I enjoyed the food RIP My friend
Sincere sympathy to Jimmys family. He was one of a kind! He played the drums in my husbands band when he was only 16. The only way he was allowed to play was Fred & Ramona trusted Bill to watch over him & not let him get into trouble! Jimmy always remembered you ,no matter how long it had been in between visits.
RIP Jimmy,
Jimmy was one of a kind for sure! Thankful i was able to share a stage with him! I loved his energy
Jimmy was a good friend he will be miss
Watch over us Jimmy G! We’ll miss ya!