Irving Austin Grant Sr.

Irving Austin Grant, Sr., was the second of 12 children born to George and Charlotte V. Williams Grant. He left home at 14 to find his way in the world. A farm program brought him to Florida and took him all over the US until he finally settled in Hartford where he worked for the Taylor and Fenn Foundry for 33 years. Irving was a provider for his family. He sponsored many of his brothers and sisters and their families who wanted to make their home in the US. He loved his mother Charlotte and brought her to live with him for several years, an act he did with great love and compassion for her, who by that time had become a widow. He financed and helped his family when needed. He keenly observed his family and looked for opportunities to assist when necessary. If he could open a door of opportunity for a family member he would. He found jobs for his brothers and brothers-in-law at the Foundry.
A protector of his sisters and made his home a refuge. His views about family matters were clear, and he knew how to stand his ground. Seen as the family patriarch after his older brother Clarence passed, his voice carried weight with his siblings. His protective eyes remained on his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His home was made into a safe space for family members in need. Irving's welfare check calls will be missed by his family.
Irving Grant had style. Cleanly dressed, sporting a classy fedora, he would drive around town in his legendary black Cadillac. He proudly stated he had been the only owner and kept it in meticulous condition. He used to love to play dominoes with his brother Edgar. They were both prolific storytellers.
Irving Grant will be missed by his children: Irving A. Grant, Jr. (son), Charlotte Grant (daughter), John J. Grant (son), Laura L. Guy (daughter), Persey H. Guy (son-in-law), James A. McMichael (son), Deborah Brooks (daughter) and Louise Smith (daughter).
Grandkids: Ernest W. Welborn (deceased), Channel S. Welborn, Peaches J. Grant, Shenaye S. McNair (Jerry McNair-husband), Jamaine L Welborn, LaToya L. Guy, Michael J. Starks (deceased), and Kevin I. Guy.
Great Grandkids: Ashira M. Stephens, Jerron B. McNair, Ahjah J. Morris, and Janay (Boom Boom) McNair.
His remaining siblings are Gradle Grant, Lois Mason, Aleen Dennis, Evan (Tats) Grant, and many nieces and nephews.