Thomas Cartin Grier, Jr., a loving father and friend to all, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on August 26, 1939, he lived a life devoted to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his family, and country.

He graduated from the University of Georgia and remained a lifelong DAWG. A proud veteran, Tom volunteered to join the United States Army after graduation from UGA. Tom served his country as an Intelligence Courier during the Cold War era in West Germany.

After being honorably discharged from the Army, Tom dedicated himself to his many passions, serving in roles such as educator, college recruiter at Young Harris College, salesman and associate pastor. He inspired countless people with his knowledge, enthusiasm for life and service to others. A natural people person, Tom made friends wherever he went. He also was an avid gardener, tending to his plants throughout his life.

Tom was the president of the Guyton Historical Society, where he established the popular Guyton Christmas Parade and ensured the continuation of the Annual Guyton Tour of Homes, a tradition started by his aunt, Dr. Willie Grier Todd, in the 1970s. While he took great pride in these accomplishments, his greatest joy was his family. Through them, his legacy will live on. Tom will be deeply loved and forever missed.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Cartin Grier Sr. and Grace Grier Head; stepfather, Robert L. Head Sr.; stepbrother, Robert “Bob” L. Head Jr.; stepsister, RueNelle Head Allen; uncle, Ralph Moody; aunts, Dr. Willie Grier Todd and Kate Kearley; and cousins, Joan Gilmore and John Andrew “Andy” Todd.

Tom is survived by his children, Sharon [Barton] Evans, Mark Grier, Marilyn “Mitzi” [Jason] Fitzpatrick, and their mother, Valeria Grier; six grandchildren, David, Teddy, Jacquelyn, Noah, Abigail, and Susan; his sister, Gail [Ed] McNew; his cousins, Richard [Judith] Kearley and Karl [Joan] Duff; nephew, Scott [Beth] McNew; niece, Tracey [Jay] Hill, grandnieces and grandnephews Mara, Chase, Delaney, Madelyn, and Declan.

The family invites friends and loved ones to attend his graveside service at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia, on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. for the line-up. The service will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m.

*All obituaries are submitted by family and friends of the deceased.

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