Larry Ellis Grider

Larry Ellis Grider, 73, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2017 at his home in Calhoun. He was born August 11, 1943 to Roy Grider and Esther Elnora Causby Grider Williams. He graduated from Calhoun High School in 1961 where he was a captain on the football team. Larry served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War from 1961-1966 aboard the USS Hancock. The discipline and patriotism he learned in service has never left him. Following his service, he was employed by United Parcel Service as a regional manager until he retired in the early 1990s. From there, he opened Calhoun Tool and Equipment Rental, Calhoun Stor-All and Calhoun Party Rental. He was a member of the Calhoun American Legion Post #47, Calhoun VFW Post #5376 and Calhoun Elks Lodge #1883. He was also an avid fan of college football, especially the Georgia Bulldogs. He was of the Baptist faith. Larry is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen Russell Grider; daughters Bethany Grider of Blue Ridge, Heather (Tommy) Gates of Calhoun; granddaughter Eleanor Gates; sister, Martha (David) Albright of Sugar Valley; several nephews and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kimberly. Funeral services celebrating his life will be conducted Wednesday January 4th at the Calhoun First Baptist Church at 1pm with Dr. Bert Vaughn and Rev. Wesley Hunt officiating. Burial to follow at Fain Cemetery. Music will be arranged by Madison Hunt and Rev. Michael Hunt. Pallbearers serving are Chad Albright, Tommy Gates, Seth Hunt, Jamey Hunt, Joel Ostuw, Larry Fleming, and Lamar Whittenburg. Honorary pallbearers will be Asa Shirley and Roger Johns. In lieu of flowers donations may be made and are appreciated to the First Baptist Church of Calhoun Building Fund or the church of your preference. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening January 3rd from 4 until 7pm at Thomas Funeral Home. You may send condolences to the family at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com Thomas Funeral Home is in charge of the funeral arrangements for Larry Ellis Grider.