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Grayson Atha Obituary
He found time to be a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, children's advocate and crusader for social justice.
And he even took time to write part of his own obituary:
"I was born on March 28th,1936, to LaVerne Crane Atha and Elizabeth Taylor Atha. My parents did not have a car, so Doctor Mauer picked my parents up and took them to Mary Rutan hospital in Bellefontaine for me to be delivered.
I quickly found a place with my two sisters and a brother soon to join us. Later in life I was alone, as all the immediate family had died, but by then I had another wonderful family.
My parents moved to West Liberty, Ohio when I was two. My siblings and I grew up there and my parents lived there until they died. I continue to own that same home and my family now gathers there throughout the year, especially on major holidays where we make new memories while floating in and out of the memories from days gone by.
I have been blessed with a wonderful family, both immediate and extended. I was not a person who sat around wishing for grandchildren, but when it happened, I experienced life in a wonderful and serendipitous way, through an entirely different lens and I will always be grateful for this experience and for these six wonderful persons, to whom I am known as Yay-yay. I always have been, and always will be thrilled by them, and who they are as unique and beautiful humans. Harris, Haviland, Lucas, Chelsea, Cameron, and Simeon-know that you are loved fully and unconditionally by your Yay-yay whether I am here on this earth, or in other locations beyond not listed on Google Maps.
I have never been, nor do I plan to be an angel or fall into the arms of Jesus. But I do know that the God who got me here-the one that breathed into me the breath of life, and sustained me all these years, that Creator has something in store for me-therefore I have no fear."
Grayson grew up in West Liberty, Ohio, and attended Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, where he met his wife Wende. He introduced himself by approaching her in the campus library to ask her permission to borrow a pen, although he had 8 pens already lined up in his shirt pocket. Wende fell for this ploy-and for him-and an amazing 65-year-long love story followed.
He attended Goshen College Biblical Seminary and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, where he was the first ever graduate of the seminary in 1963.
Subsequently, he began his life's work as a United Methodist pastor in the West Ohio United Methodist Conference for over 65 years. He tackled a number of different causes based on the needs of communities in which he was serving, including civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and other human rights causes. He has always encouraged his children, grandchildren, colleagues, and parishioners to stand up for those in their midst who need a voice at the table-and he has always, without fail, led by example.
Grayson was also a friend of, and advocate for, children. He started a children's library at Mt. Zion UMC in Cincinnati, and made children's moments a central and exciting part of each of his church services-realizing that he had a unique opportunity to convey to each child that they were special, and loved by God beyond measure. Grayson always requested extra-long extension cords for his microphones so that he could have the freedom to conduct children's moments outside the church as needs arose to discuss God's miracles of nature.
A favorite family story is that one day, several elementary age children rang the doorbell of the parsonage when Grayson was serving at Grace Church in Norwood. When Grayson's mother-in-law answered the door, one of the very young children inquired, "Is Gwayson allowed to come out and play?"
In 1963, Grayson and a close colleague, Jim Martin, worked with Jim and Virginia Snavely to establish International Child Care (ICC). ICC started Grace Children's Hospital, which is dedicated to the care of tubercular children, opened in 1967 in Port au Prince, Haiti. ICC's efforts to vaccinate children for, and treat tuberculosis, impacted the trajectory of that disease in Haiti.
Grayson was often ahead of his time in pushing for social causes and more than once he ended up ruffling feathers in the name of justice. During his tenure at King Avenue, the Pastor-Parish Relations committee requested that he be removed from his role as pastor of the church following a Sunday morning children's moment during which he mentioned that "Families are not always the same, some have a mom and a dad, others have just a mom OR a dad, and some families have two moms, or two dads."
The decision asking for Grayson to leave was eventually reversed, and King Avenue UMC continues to be an open, safe, inclusive, and loving congregation, welcoming all with "open minds, open hearts, and open doors." One of his greatest passions and contributions to his hometown was spearheading the West Liberty Historical Society's revitalization of the West Liberty Opera House. He worked closely with a team of people for many years to help make this dream a reality.
During his time in ministry, he served a variety of United Methodist Churches, including the Haviland Charge, Norwood Grace, Lebanon UMC, Mt. Zion in Cincinnati, King Avenue in Columbus, Williams Street in Delaware, and Summit and Gates-Fourth, also in Columbus. He also served as a District Superintendent in the area formerly known as the Findlay District where he made the first cross-racial appointment in the West Ohio Conference. Following this, Grayson was assigned to a cross-racial appointment at Mt. Zion UMC. Grayson was most recently named Pastor Emeritus at King Avenue UMC.
Grayson was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Marylin Goldsmith, Sharyn Figley, and Alan Atha. He and Wende have three children who all live in Columbus. Marcus Atha (Kristen), Angelyn Atha, and Holly Atha.
He is survived by six grandchildren, Harris Scott (Ethan), Haviland Atha-Simonton, Lucas Atha, Chelsea Atha, Cameron Atha, and Simeon Atha (Margot).
Beyond his family and friends, Grayson enjoyed classical music and vigorous hymn singing (SING IT!!), being with his family, $2 bills, family events, homemade lemon bars, time with his family, bike riding, marching in the Columbus Gay Pride Parade (with his family), the Columbus Gay Men's Chorus, Irish goodbyes, live theatre (watched with his family), letter writing, ice cream, reading the New York Times, breaking the rules, milk toast, corn mush, extra crispy bacon, and visiting Ireland (with his family, of course), among so much more.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 17, at King Avenue UMC at 299 King Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43201. Visitation is from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. with service immediately following. The service will be live-streamed at www.kingave.org. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in honor of Grayson to the West Liberty Historical Society (Opera House-Phase III) at www.westlibertyhistory.com, or King Avenue UMC at www.kingave.org
63 Entries
Kelly Cantwell
March 22, 2025
Grayson's birthday will be on March 28th. This can be a profound day of love, grief, and memories. Love, Kelly Cantwell
Jeanette
March 22, 2025
Grayson always treated me as family. I have so many memories of Grayson, I wouldn´t know where to begin. He and his family is one of the blessings I cherish.
Sandy Davis
March 22, 2025
Still....There will never be another like the original! Think of you often.
You will always be one of a kind!
Sharon Pope
March 22, 2025
Normally around Grayson´s birthday I would be baking him a pie. I loved baking for him bc no one enjoyed a pie the way Grayson did! Missing him and loved remembering him this week for his birthday.
How you can show support
Susan & Tim Hansen/Gaier
May 29, 2024
Two things I will remember about Grayson...."prayer doesn't change things ...prayer changes people and people change things" and when asked what he like most about Methodism "they don't ask you to leave your brain at the door" and what do you like LEAST about Methodism..."they don't ask you to leave you brain at the door".....what a COOL person he was....so sorry we missed this notice in Feb...Susan Hansen & Tim Gaier
Jane Murphy-Grothaus
February 24, 2024
To quote Mother Teresa, "Do ordinary things with
extraordinary love". This is how I remember Grayson. My deepest sympathy to the Atha family.
Vicki Washburn
February 23, 2024
While Rev Atha was serving as Findlay DS he visited our church! We had a potluck in celebration of his visit to our church! I made sauerkraut meatballs for the potluck! He loved them so much I sent the rest home with him! He wrote me later for the recipe and told me he used his key to eat the leftovers on his way home!! He shared the recipe with many over the years with the stipulation that they send me a thank you! I heard from a lot of folks over the years!
He will be missed
Kylee Baumle
February 21, 2024
I was a young child when Grayson served his first congregation in Haviland, in the early to mid-1960s. I remember thinking for the longest time, that his first name was "Revern."
He was special to my grandma and they kept in touch over the years, after he left Haviland. She passed away in 2017, at age 102, and I can just imagine the conversations the two of them are having now. Oh, to be a fly on the wall of heaven...
My sincere condolences to the Atha family, and all who loved him.
Kylee (Hartwig) Baumle
Haviland, OH
Kay (Gudakunst)Mawhorter
February 21, 2024
Grayson meant a lot to my family from the Haviland Charge. My marriage was the first one he did after he was ordained on June 11, 1961. He was ordained in the morning and married us that afternoon. I give my sincere sympathy to all his loved ones.
Jym Sparks
February 21, 2024
Grayson had just taken over as pastor at Gates-Fourth and his presence would fill a room. He was so educated and confident, he could be quite intimidating, yet very welcoming too.
Grayson always spoke his mind and would not back down BUT he knew what FAIR/RIGHT was. Grayson was a constant teacher, if he was asking you something, he already had the answer. He tonight me so much about being a kind, fair and trustworthy person first and being a Christian as like the cherry on top.
My heart goes out to the multitudes of people that his kindness touched. I KNOW where he is going and thank you Grayson for Everything you taught me and for being there fir me. He would drop everything to help anyone. I was in the hospital with a heart attack. He came in the first words our of his mouth was: what can I do? He was also instrumental in helping me purchase my house. He always just knew when something wasn't right. God watch over his amazing family and don't grieve he is now truly living.
Gus Christo-Baker
February 20, 2024
Sincere Condolences to the Family of Grayson
and our WOC community. He will be MISSED!
Grayson was dedicated to making a difference.
First encountered him through a phone call in 1988.
After two years at Methesco I went to Freetown to be
with family and received his call for an SPRC introduction.
Traveled back immediately, met him at the Findlay office
and after the introduction I served this cross racial- cross
cultural congregation for sixteen years. Grayson was always
supportive. He loved and paid attention to our kids who were
always willing to visit with him at the district office because
they were sure of a good time with him enjoying ice cream
He celebrated the kid's birthday and was the only person
with a two-dollar bill in their birthday cards. What a unique
example of the Master! He was a pastor to our family as our DS, with impeccable integrity.
His legacy of trustworthiness, mentoring, service, devotion, and contributions to the church, and to people in general, shall continue to inspire those fortunate enough to share in his very personal, professional, and spiritual journey. His fellow pilgrims who loved him will MISS him and zillions will CHERISH his memory. Till we meet again again,
See You Later Grayson. Rest Peacefully and Thank You
Brenda Melchor
February 18, 2024
Prayers for the Atha family.
Love the Melchor´s Brenda and Robert
Pastor David Tatgenhorst
February 18, 2024
Grayson Atha led a trip to Grace Children´s Hospital in Haiti in 1968 over the Christmas holidays. I was 15 years old at the time. I don´t know who convinced my parents that it was a good idea to let their 15 year old son take a 30 hour bus trip to Miami and then a plane to one of the poorest countries in the world, but I bet that Grayson had something to do with it. His friend John Petrie was our youth pastor at the time and the two of them cared about the world and about young people enough to take the risk. The trip and those two ministers changed my life.
I became a community organizer in Philadelphia and later a pastor in the United Methodist Church, working for an end to racism, inclusion of LGBTQ folks in the church, and interfaith cooperation for a just world. Grayson´s sense of humor and his storytelling style were engaging, and joyful. I tried to emulate him in my ministry, though I never attended a church he served. He was an inspiration and a great model for a good way to live. I thank God for his life and his ministry.
Tabitha P
February 18, 2024
I did not know this dear man, but I wish I would have - an inspiration and example for us all. I wish peace to his loved ones during this time.
Alex Johnson
February 17, 2024
We think the world of Grayson. He knew how to care. And we added Gracyn to our family after knowing him. Alex Johnson, Jay Matthews, Pat James
Robert Logan
February 17, 2024
I only know of Grayson through stories told to me by his daughter Holly. I always thought she had the coolest father. He will be missed by everyone he touched.
Kelly L Cantwell
February 17, 2024
Today we visited King Avenue UMC to celebrate Rev. Grayson Atha's memorial service. All of the family spoke about the celebration of his life. May he rest in peace!
Margaret Piatt
February 17, 2024
I'd like Grayson's wonderful family to know how much it meant to me to watch the service today. He brought some of you grandchildren to Castle camps several years ago and I enjoyed seeing you as adults and hearing your stories. I used to attend the WLHS breakfast meetings at the Gathering Place where I usually sat next to Grayson. I think my shoulders rubbed each of his sweaters I saw you wearing today. I told him I sat by him so I could feel his vibes.
Here is a short story. One day, I was sitting in my car waiting for the light to change at the corner of Baird and Detroit Streets. I saw Grayson walk by but for a brief moment, instead of recognizing him, I saw him as one of the wonderful individuals Nathaniel Hawthorne described in a series he called, "Character Sketches." I was not sure, but I thought Grayson might enjoy that he reminded me of Nathaniel Hawthorne, so I later shared that impression with him. He said, "I'm not familiar with that work. I'll have to read it." Listening to your stories today, I realize that encounter one more example of his curiosity and open mind and heart for moments that are not ordinary. Sometimes, I called him Nathaniel or Hawthorn. They had similar hair!
Lori Figley
February 17, 2024
Uncle Grayson was always full of knowledge and very supportive. You are loved and will always be missed. My condolences to the family.
Alan and Linda Whittle
February 17, 2024
A wonderful service for a truly remarkable man. We have "turned right" for you all.
Amy Bixel
February 17, 2024
I am a better person because of GA. He loved like no other and was grounded in his faith. His gentle spirit was always consistent and he knew just what to say in the toughest of life´s moments. I regret that I cannot attend his celebration as I am out of town. Know of my love and support constant prayers! Your family is dear to my heart always.
Rev Judy Cramer
February 17, 2024
Although I never met Grayson, his son, Marcus, was my District Superintendent. What a faithful, thoughtful and kind man. So, I decided recently to buy Grayson´s book, "Clergy Dance". What a delight. Although I never met you, I feel like I know you. Thank you for inspiring me and so many others. Pastor Judy Cramer.
Bob Naughtrip
February 17, 2024
Our relationship with Grayson began with my Grandfather Edwards in Norwood. A connection that continued for 3 generations. Grayson has provided inspiration to the Naughtrip family in good times, and not so good times. I personally have been a recipient of his $2 bill infatuation. A couple of years ago, at our last opportunity to break bread, I reciprocated by giving him a $2 bill. He is now with our Lord for eternity. If Grayson could have taken one with him, I am sure he would give Jesus a $2 bill.
Stephen Ohnsman
February 16, 2024
I met Grayson when I was a seminary student with his son, Marcus. He was funny, engaging and engaged, and kind of strange. I loved him from the moment I met him. Thank God for people like Grayson - they shake the world up.
Ingrid Gunderson
February 16, 2024
Dear Grayson came to our Toledo church as assistant minister when I was 14, a year my life and family turned upside down. I had few words to describe or even understand events. But Grayson had the wisdom and love to see, and to keep me quietly connected: to him, to Wende and his family, to Jim Martin and his family, to work with Child Care Foundation, to `church projects, to the gift of purpose and meaning in those painful times. Connected to life. Another ice cream story: he took me to Jeni´s Ice Cream the last time I saw him, fun I would not have understood as a teen. It was marvelous.
Char Wilkerson
February 16, 2024
Years ago I heard Rev Atha speak as Lakeside preacher of the week and after returning to Columbus sought him out at King Avenue. He always had a wonderful message.
I was delighted to find that his son was the minister at NB church which is next door to my home. Marcus is equally inspiring.
My deepest sympathy to the family.
Barbara Riley
February 16, 2024
Tom and I are resettled in Florida, and unable to attend his memorial,
but we will be with you on line. Grayson and KAUMC are responsible for including the Church as an ongoing, steadying presence in our lives, and he enriched us just as he has blessed so many. We will miss him as a pastor, friend, and neighbor.
Madeline Crosby
February 16, 2024
I did not have the privilege of knowing Rev. Grayson personally, but I have seen his profound footprint in our community. My deepest sympathies to his family and community. Madeline Crosby
Rev deniray mueller+
February 16, 2024
Wende,
Karen Peeler and I am so sorry that we can't celebrate Grayson's life with you. We are consecrating a new Bishop for the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio, and as a clergy, I have a part in the process.
We will ever be thankful for the dinners at your house and the love and acceptance of us as a couple (since Grayson knew before we did and teased us unmercifully).
The world lost a great man who made this world a much better place.
Blessings of comfort and peace to the whole family and all those who were touched by Grayson
Rev deniray mueller+
Andrea Alford
February 15, 2024
Grayson was the officiating pastor at our wedding on April 18 1998. At the time my parents did not have a home church, but they started attending King Ave after the wedding because of Grayson and his leadership. They periodically shared stories with Jim and me about the great things Grayson was facilitating at King Ave. We were so blessed to meet and learn from Reverend Atha. -Andrea Alford, Chelsea MI
John D Chovan PhD DNP RN CNP CNS
February 15, 2024
Holding up Grayson's family, friends, and all KAUMC souls at this time of sorrow for comfort, grace, and peace.
Rebecca Grohowski
February 15, 2024
I grew up in West Liberty. I remember playing outside on hot summer days with the neighborhood children. One of the highlights was when we would see a bicycle coming down the street. The bike had a large cooler on the front. The rider had a mass of red curls that stuck out from under his little white hat. He was just a teen ager then, and I a small child, but it gave me great pride in later years to say that Grayson Atha was my ice cream man. Years later he told me that endeavor didn't make him much money because he gave a lot of his ice cream to the neighborhood dogs on those hot days! To say Grayson was well known is a huge understatement. I started my church work in Circleville, and when I would tell people I came from West Liberty, the first question was usually, "do you know Grayson Atha?" That followed me up to Toledo and I got to where I just expected the question. I met one lady that asked if I knew Grayson and then told me that she worked with him in the Findlay office. She then told me that during the summer he often brought all of them ice cream from the local ice cream and candy shop. I guess some habits die hard! I know that Grayson has said he is not sure where God plans to use him in the kingdom, but wherever it is, I am picturing a huge ice cream social with people and animals gathered round Grayson. Tonight I plan to enjoy an ice cream bar in his honor. Thanks, Grayson, for just being you! My condolences to the family.
Daniel&Carolyn Davis
February 15, 2024
Rev. Atha married us 50 yrs.ago this March 8th ,in Norwood ,Ohio at Grace United Methodist Church . "He always made us smile "Our thoughts an Prayers to Family an Friends Mr. &Mrs .Daniel Davis
Dan Carnahan
February 15, 2024
My first memory is when I accepted Jesus Christ in 1959 while Grayson was pastor at Latty Methodist Church (Haviland Charge). He was a seminary student and was pastoring at the Haviland Charge I was the youngest (14 at the time) to go on the first mission trip with Grayson and 30 some others to Haiti in 1964. An outgrowth of that trip was the International Child Care organization. There are so many memories too much to tell; He married my wife Susan and I in 1973 at Columbus Eastview United Methodist Church, and we located to Lebanon Ohio where Grayson pastored for several years. Grayson was also full of grace and surprises. You can only imagine how he interacted with a bunch of teenagers when he was himself in his late 20´s. Our hearts go out to Wende and the family as they mourn this great disciple of Jesus Christ.
Raymond Merz
February 14, 2024
Grayson and I have crossed paths in the ministry at different intervals. We both attended Taylor University, participated in One-to-One Camp sponsored by the Cincinnati District (he was at Norwood Grace and I was associate at Cheviot). I will always remember his delivering Charge Conference packets to pastors in the Findlay District from his bicycle, and his talk at Lancaster First Church when
he looked around and said, "If the sermon gets dull, you can always count the stained-glass windows, and here you could count and count until everyone else had left and you were still counting the windows." Everyone just roared with laughter. Grayson had such a marvelous way of disarming his critics, and capturing the heart of the Gospel. In that sense he was a true prophetic voice. We need more such voices today!
Ray Merz (ordained 1962, retired 2003)
Sandy Runyon-Davis
February 14, 2024
Oh this man! His laughter and enjoyment of people was always on display! Many of us worked at King Ave, I cleaned the church, worked the welcome desk, helped open and close the church. It would always make me smile to see Grayson shuffle through the church, he always had something on his busy mind. He had the most calm demeanor - He always had time for you, after I married and sent cards to he and Wende for holidays-My new name as I signed my cards, The plumbers wife. The plumbers wife will never forget you Grayson Atha. You were blessed with a beautiful life and a beautiful family!
Rick Downing
February 14, 2024
I attend Gates Fourth UMC. This is where I first met Grayson. After speaking with him we are both from the West Liberty area. Both born at Mary Rutan Hospital.
I was diagnosed with throat cancer and in 2016 I required a very extensive surgery. I was not able to talk well. I was laying in the hospital bed one early Sunday morning and in walked Grayson. He sat down and told me not to try to say anything that he would like to just sit with me for a while. I must have dozed off when all of a sudden Grayson burst out in his rendition of Amazing Grace. He finished the song. Said a prayer with me and left for Sunday Services. How awesome!
Later that year he married my husband and I in the church. I asked him if would get in trouble and he responded, " what are they going to do fire me" ending with his mischievous grin. You will be missed Grayson. Thanks for the love you shared unconditional.
Rick and Bobby.
Donna Lou Bratka Erwin, President, WL Historical Society
February 14, 2024
Grayson was the driving force behind the renovation of the West Liberty Town Hall and Opera House.
For 20 years he pushed the committee forward until the Opera House became a beautiful and useful asset to his hometown. So glad he was able to witness the project 95% completed.
Karen Ball and Chris Wooten
February 14, 2024
Grayson officiated a "Commitment Ceremony" for Chris Wooten and me in June 2001 -- a long time prior to broad acceptance of non traditional relationships. He stood proudly in his collar, with his supportive family in solidarity and attending as well. He found a string quartet to play and we did it all. He was so proud to stand with us. He spent time on "marriage counseling" with us and helped us deepen our own relationship, just as he would with any other couple making a long-term commitment to one another. For him, it didn't matter. It was all "God's work".
We will always be deeply indebted to Grayson. His support of us personally, his work to help King Avenue become an accepting and safe place -- it was a huge step for Grayson and his family to take.
He was the first church to invite the Gay Men's Chorus to perform their Christmas Concert in a sacred space -- he was a true leader.
We are deeply indebted to Grayson and our heart goes out to his family as they attempt to navigate his loss.
Karen Ball
Robert Ball
February 14, 2024
Grayson has always been a special person, pastor and friend to me. His way of communicating the Gospel brought the Good News home in way that I had never heard before. He made me laugh and cry. He made me think more deeply about my understanding of the Biblical story. He was a role model for me as a pastor. I shall never forget Grayson Atha, a humble, fun loving, bicycle riding preacher, teacher, pastor, DS and friend. In deep appreciation for his ministry and mission in live. He did, indeed, make every moment count. Grace and Peace my friend, Robert Ball
Joan Leitzel
February 14, 2024
With deep sympathy and appreciation,
Joan Leitzel
Jeanette Zerkle
February 14, 2024
Grayson was, like his father, family to me. My life has been enriched by Grayson as he always made me, and my family welcome in his home. I was saddened when I heard of his demise and more saddened that I can not personally be present to celebrate his life and pay condolences in person. Prayers have been raised up for all of you, and it goes without saying that I loved Grayson and all of you. May God wrap his comfort around Wende, Marcus, Angelyn, Holly and all of your extended family.
Rick Zerkle
February 14, 2024
Grayson definitely danced to the tune of a different drummer. His mind never stopped working and each conversation became a new story to pass on. His wit and friendship will be missed by many but the memories he left will comfort both family and friends. Jeanette and I are in Florida and regret that we can not be there to pay our respects at King Avenue. Rest in peace my friend.
Derek Mortland
February 14, 2024
When I was attending King Avenue, whenever there was a baptism, Grayson would hold the baby up high in the air with one hand and walk him or her around the congregation. I don't know how many people, including myself. feared that he was going to drop the baby but he always held it in strength. Reflecting on this, it demonstrated his willingness to take risks and at times, even walk a tight rope. Yet, his strength and balance were unwavering and he always pulled through and carried others with him.
The second memory was whenever there was a need in the church, Grayson would usually address it immediately and ask others to do so as well. He would usually do this in the course of a service and announce the need, (so much money for such and such or so money people to volunteer for such and such). He tell the congregation he needed $XXX or X amount of volunteers. He would not continue with the service until he got the numbers he needed. One of these times I was the recipient of an impromptu goodwill offering as I dealt with serious health issues.
I am eternally grateful for the love and generosity of both Grayson and the church he lead. Much love to his soul and to the family and friends he had in his lifetime. Peace be upon Grayson.
Shelley Snyder
February 14, 2024
Dear Grayson, say hello to mom and dad for me, and I hope mom fixes you chow-mein as your welcome dinner!
Garnetta White
February 14, 2024
Grayson was quite a character. My husband George and I were members of Grace UMC in Norwood Ohio. We were part of a "Supper Club" that hosted dinners frequently with other couples from the Church. Grayson and Wende were often invited as the guest couple by the host. I always hosted the December Supper and served a large variety of Christmas Cookies and a frozen dessert called Raspberry Lush. He was crazy for this dessert. Year after year he would find ways to have 2nd, 3rd, or 4th servings. Finally, I gave up and after serving everyone else a scoop in a dessert dish, I would bring Grayson the entire container and an ice teaspoon so he could enjoy as much as he wanted. He looked forward to this every year. He will be greatly missed.
Lisa-Kaye Kingery
February 14, 2024
Grayson was the minister at Grace UMC when I was a youth. My first job was in the office after school to answer the phones setup/cleanup after meetings, and close up the Church at night. He was often in his office and he and I would chat. When a young man started coming around the office in the evenings, he paid particular attention and even had a few "fatherly" conversations with us when we began to date. That young man eventually proposed to me, and although Grayson had already moved to his next pastoral assignment, he agreed to officiate the wedding ceremony. Grayson joined me and my husband Ken Kingery in Holy Matrimony on August 11, 1979. We celebrate our 45th anniversary this year. -- Lisa-Kaye (White) Kingery
John Thut
February 14, 2024
I well remember Grayson as "one of those neat experienced high school boys" when I was attending the big stone grade school where the cafeteria was.
Rev. Dr. Russell Gwinn Lacy
February 14, 2024
I Thoroughly enjoyed my friendship & brotherhood with Grayson. He was always on the forefront of needed social change, in true Wesleyan spirit. Ride on, Warrior.
Sylvia Hull
February 14, 2024
I always admired Grayson (from afar) for his courage to stand up for those who needed a voice. I will never forget when I was pastoring a very small church (Newport UMC outside London, Ohio) and officiating for a funeral for one of the church's matriarchs. As I welcomed everyone to the service, I looked out to see THE Grayson Atha sitting in the second row. After that, I don't remember much of what I said as I was SO nervous that someone whom I admired so deeply would be taking part in something I organized and delivered. Afterward, I do recall introducing myself and I will never forget him saying, in his deep voice while shaking my hand, "Very well done." I have, ever since, carried this moment in my mind and heart .
Robin Hollinger
February 13, 2024
Sending lots of healing prayers for friends and family
Suzanne Luppens
February 13, 2024
Grayson was a minister at Monroe Street Methodist Church in Toledo Ohio when my husband and I were teenagers. We remember him fondly as a one of a kind, special man. We thank his family for sharing him with us.
Jim and Suzanne Luppens
Rev. David Yinger
February 13, 2024
Rev. David Yinger.
I had the real privilege of officiating a funeral service with Grayson at the West Liberty United Methodist Church, in West Liberty, OH. I was currently serving the church as their pastor. Also I have fond memories of having conversations with Grayson when he was in West Liberty. Grayson attended the worship services at the West Liberty United Methodist Church at times when he was in West Liberty. I had a great relationship with him and I highly respected him. I thank the Lord for the opportunities I had with him. Truly a wonderful servant of God. Well done good and faithful servant.
Carol Langkamp
February 13, 2024
Grayson was a delightful soul to all who came to know him. I was blessed being a member of King Avenue while he was there. I actually went to my current church while he was there. I talked to him about my personal life and always felt loved and blessed in his presence. He and his wife opened up their house to new members and I remember the fellowship and fun we had that night. I will miss him very much.
Lisa Bartlett
February 13, 2024
I always looked forward to seeing Grayson at Annual Conference. I am one of the 2 head ushers and sat near where he sat. I loved talking with him. May GOD be with Grayson's family at this time.
Lisa Bartlett
The Rev. Jeffrey Ridenour
February 13, 2024
To the family, friends, and colleagues of Grayson,
I was privileged to call Grayson a friend, despite our theological differences.
We both had as mentor Rev. Don "Pappy" Yocum who shared that Grayson was the first of his parishioners to enter ordained ministry. I was one of the last.
Rev. Yocum shared often how proud he was of Grayson, his family, and ministry.
May you all be comforted as Grayson journeys to his next place of service in God's kingdom.
Jeff Ridenour
Debbie Todd
February 13, 2024
A long time ago Grayson was a part of my life and he was always so good to me and tried to offer comfort when needed. I haven't been in the family for a long time now but I've kept in touch with a few for awhile then life happens and time passes. When Logan (my son) told me what he was naming his second child (Grayson Skylar Atha) I thought of Grayson instantly. The kids (Kris' kids) doesn't remember alot of the family but they along with myself send our condolences to Wende and the children/grandchildren of Grayson. He was a wonderful man and will never be forgotten.
Cam Hahn
February 13, 2024
So grateful for the man who contributed to building such an incredibly kind and beautiful family. I treasure the Athas in my life, and have no doubt that their kindness, patience, and ability to see to the true heart of people is something that has Grayson Atha at the core of it. I will read the New York Times this week in his honor, and bake some lemon bars from scratch. May memories of his life and his joy in things big and small be something we all can find ourselves to continue to keep his spirit alive.
Randy Atha
February 13, 2024
I remember Grayson at my parents wedding. He was the marriage officiant and was also my uncle. During the reception Grayson told me and the other kids that the ice cream parlor down the street from his house in west liberty was free for the day-paid in full by him, and to have as much as we wanted. The other kids and I were so excited and ran down there for the free ice cream. Grayson always knew exactly how to creatively make people happy, bring people together, and overall make everything feel like they should. A lot can be learned from his nature.
Sharon Pope
February 13, 2024
We were hosting a fundraiser for the kids at an orphanage in Mexico and one of the items I offered up on the silent auction was a dessert-a-month (for one year). Grayson of course bid on it and won. He told me he preferred pie so I ended up baking him a pie every month for YEARS - bc he enjoyed them so much. Grayson was a giant of a man. He changed my life in many ways and I´m grateful to have known and loved him.
Stacy Nockowitz
February 13, 2024
At Simeon and Margot´s wedding, Grayson came up to me after my speech, and there were tears in his eyes. We spoke for a few minutes, his hand grasping mine, and I will always be grateful that I got to spend time with him that day. He was a wonderful person.
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