Randolph Alphonso Grant Jr.

Sometime during May 18th, 1936, it happened. The man who would become a son, sibling, nephew, family member, friend, loved one, and eventual father was born. The opportunity to demonstrate his strength began at birth. A twin, he was the only one to survive the pregnancy. What happens next exemplifies the power of Love. Mable Grant, the family matriarch, raised him. Randolph Alphonso Grant, Jr., nicknamed Randy, Butch, or Grant, weighed about 12 pounds at birth and when it was said and done, he was 6’5” and athletically built. So, it is not a surprise that he gravitated to playing sports during his teenage and early adult years. His prowess in basketball, football, boxing, and baseball was often noted in news articles, and he received several awards during his high-school and semi-professional tenure. Because the size of his heart matched his larger-than-life stature, he was a natural giver. The combination of his size and heart drew him to protect others personally and professionally. Grant served as an Airforce vet, beat policeman, detective, NARC, and Chief of Police until he retired. Grant never met a stranger. You could often find him making sure everyone was safe and taken care of in whatever community he resided. When there were blackouts, he would be found handing out candles. During voting times, he would be found giving rides to the indigent and elderly. During his grandchildren’s sports events, he could be found driving around the school campus, making sure everyone was okay and giving rides to students who needed rides home. His knack for giving attracted those in need to whom he was more than eager to lend a helping hand. Because he was so tall, you could see him coming from a distance. In his young adult years, when he came into the neighborhood, children would squeal and beg him to lift them up with one hand. He was loved by many. Randy was preceded in death by his birth mother, Mildred Williams Grant, his stepmother, Viola Birmingham, his father, Randolph Alphonso Grant, Sr., a sister, Tanecia Grant-Butts and his parental guardian, Mable Grant. Grant leaves behind his children, Thalia Autry, Randee Grant, III, Mildred Grant-Williams, Jason Grant, and Tiffany Grant. His adopted children Latisha Grant and Wayne Grant. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews,other family members and friends.