Eugene Grant

Eugene “Gene” Grant was born on April 9, 1945 to Julia Brown Grant Smith in Charleston, SC. He was the eldest of two children. He passed away quietly by natural causes on September 9, 2011. Gene and his family relocated to Bronx, New York at an early age. He was educated in the New York public school system. He joined the United States Air Force and served his country for twenty three years. During his time, he received many decorations and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. While on active duty, his decorations included the Air Force Commendation Medal (oak leaf cluster), Air Force Achievement Medal (with five oak leaf clusters), National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, AF Longevity Service Award (with four oak leaf clusters), as well as the Republic of Vietnam Campaign. He wore his decorations and badges with great pride. Gene met and married Andreietta “Dottie” Gates Easton in December of 1969, and to this union of thirty eight years, the couple has been blessed with three beautiful children, Mary Rochelle, Michael Eugene, and Maurice Rayshawn. Many of their earliest memories included living and moving across the United States from Maine to Arizona. Although divorced, the two remained supportive of their family. Gene worked more than fifteen years as a Team Leader 8(a) Division Contracting Officer for the Small Business Administration. He was always interested in helping others pursue their dreams. He took it on as his personal responsibility. His military precision and enthusiasm to getting the job done allowed him to accomplish these goals. Gene will best be remembered for his sense of humor and quick wit. He always told a great story, made everyone feel included and brought smiles to many faces. He adored his children and always supported their endeavors. He was looking forward to his retirement and was recently engaged to Ms. Sandra Franklin. He is predeceased by his sister, Lenore. Gene leaves to cherish his memories: two sons, Michael and Maurice; one daughter, Mary Rochelle; his mother, Julia Smith; two nephews Jai-sen and Daniel , one niece, Jilea and daughter in law, Nami as well as a host of relatives and friends.