suffering from kidney disease, garrison continued to weaken during april 1879. he moved to new york to live with his daughter fanny's family. in late may, his condition worsened, and his five surviving children rushed to join him. fanny asked if he would enjoy singing some hymns. although he was unable to sing, his children sang favorite hymns while he beat time with his hands and feet. on may 24, 1879, garrison lost consciousness and died just before midnight.