"Dear Tommy, Kay, Brad, and Kristin - I just finished speaking to my parents, Billy and Janis, who were driving home from the service and called to tell me how beautiful and moving it had been. I wish very much that I could have been there, but I wish even more that I'd had more opportunities to get to know Brian better. Our age difference and my nomadic lifestyle meant that I don't know my younger Grant cousins as well as I would have liked, and I think Brian and I would have had much in common to talk about at family gatherings. I remember a shy little tow-headed boy, and see that he grew up into a generous, intelligent, and creative young man, who made a deep and meaningful impact on many people's lives in his too-short life. Peggy and I read his blog and both agreed that he reminded us very much of Elbert, who was also quiet but deeply and thoroughly kind. Nothing lessens the pain of losing your child so young, but I'm thankful that you have so many of his writings to remember him by. And I hope there is some comfort in knowing that his life was clearly full beyond measure, for all its brevity. John and I made a donation to Book 'Em this afternoon in his honor, and we send you our deepest sympathies and love, now and always. Maggie Scoville Shermer"
In loving memory of
Brian Nicholas Grant
November 16, 1985 - February 13, 2018
Brian Nicholas Grant was born on November 16, 1985, and passed away too soon at the young age of 32 at his family residence in Winchester, Tennessee on February 13, 2018.
Born and raised in Winchester, Brian took the brave leap and moved to Los Angeles, California to pursue an MBA at Pepperdine Graziadio School of Business and Administration after graduating with honors in 2008 from the University of Miami, Florida where he was a founding father of Beta Theta Phi. His love for learning was evident -- having attended schools in three different States -- he was always excited to further expand his mind.
Never one for complacency, Brian filled the rest of his time working with Studio Services of Nordstrom at the Grove in Los Angeles, and fulfilled a dream of working in the film industry.
Brian shared his love of reading with his love of the "art" of coffee, usually with Lionel Richie, Kenny Chesney, and Elton John playing in the background.
Writing was Brian's leading passion, and he shared this creative output with others through his "Brainwaves" Blog (www.briannicholasgrant.com). It was through this venture he found an outlet for his pain and his fears. His writing had a unique raw authenticity that showed his hope and his strength. Over time, his blog matured from a mere creative experiment into a genuine exploration of the human spirit as it fought against unimaginable odds. While his body was fighting, his mind was writing.
Condolences from friends at Jimmy Kimmel Live, "A new star lights the night sky... and its name is Brian," reminds us that he will be missed by the movie and entertainment industry he loved so much.
For six years Brian battled a brain tumor with strength and grace, bearing every setback with a smile and hope. Making his friends and family a priority, always ensuring they were happy, because that is what mattered most to him. He proved to us all that angels truly do exist.
Brian met every obstacle with indescribable grace; faced every challenge with inconceivable courage. He taught us the importance of education and the value of dreams. His courageous battle serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder, that nothing should ever stop us from living the life we truly want.
Preceded in death by his grandparents, George W. and Elizabeth B. Nichols, and Elbert and Mary Helen Grant, Brian is survived by his family who he affectionately referred to as "The Five": loving parents, Tommy and Kay Grant; brother, Dr. Thomas "Brad" Grant; sister, Kristi Grant (Daniel) Pribble; and beloved toy poodle, Eleanor.
Visitation with family and friends will be held from 5-8pm on Friday, February 23, 2018 at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home.
An event celebrating Brian's life will be held at noon on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at Winchester First Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests memorial donations be made to "Book 'em", an organization that aims to create a more literate Nashville by helping economically disadvantaged children discover the joy and value of reading. 161 Rains Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203-5330, (615) 255-1820, books@bookem-kids.org.
Brian's message lives on, "We aren't conformed by an illness, but rather awoken by its power to change our lives in hopes of inspiring others."
We salute -- and thank -- you for making all our lives better.
Tributes
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"Dear Kay and Tommy, Our hearts are saddened after hearing about the loss of your son, Brian. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family. Jim and Renee Oakley Creative Florist and Gifts"
"Praying for you and your family in your time of need. May God grant you comfort and peace With deepest sympathy; Shelton and Pamela Farver"
"We are sending you our deepest sympathy and wishing you comfort. Words can not truly express the pain that you are going through right now,but we can find comfort in knownig that we can see our dead loved ones again Our thoughts are with you. ( John :11 25,26))"
"My condolences to the family. No one is ever totally prepared for the death of a love one. May you draw close to God in prayer and he will sustain you. Psalms 55:22."
"My condolences to the family. No one is ever totally prepared for the death of a love one. May you draw close to God in prayer and he will sustain you. Psalms 55:22."
"My condolences to the family. No one is ever totally prepared for the death of a love one. May you draw close to God in prayer and he will sustain you. Psalms 55:22."
" Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers! -Robyn Custer "
"I have sweet memories of Brian and Jared going to Boy Scout Camp. Sleep outs, hikes, working on badges, having fun. Kay, my hearts aches for you and Tommy. I know you were so proud of him. He was an exceptional young man."
"We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jim & Sandie Brazelton"