John Cicero Grant, born October 27, 1938, in
Chauncey, GA, passed peacefully on December 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, learning, service, and kindness that touched all who knew him.
John was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Oscar Arston Grant, his mother, Annie Forrest Hardy Grant, and his beloved brothers and sisters: Hardy Grant (Inez), Jack Grant (Mary), Oscar Grant (Becky), Bill Grant (Wilene), Sarah Woodard (Wilton), Katurah Kelly (Robert), Delta Jones (Hugh).
He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Thelma Edwards Grant; his children Arston Grant (wife Jennifer), Jai Grant Folk (husband Chris), and Eric Grant (wife Dolly); his grandsons: Cameron Grant (Robyn), Grant Covington (Brooke), Davis Covington (Kiersten), Ethan Grant and granddaughters: Anna McCrary (Will), SGT Katurah Grant, Emily Grant, Raegan Grant; and his two great-granddaughters, Avery and Lily; as well as many nieces and nephews.
John was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia and dedicated his professional life to education, spending his career as a teacher and school administrator in the sciences. He deeply valued learning and inspired countless students through his passion for knowledge, discipline, and curiosity.
A United States Army veteran was a chapter of John's life he carried with pride and deep respect for those who served alongside him.
John was a devout Christian and remained active in several churches throughout his life, grounding his family in faith and modeling a life of service, humility, and compassion.
He loved travel, history, and basketball, famously playing the game well into his 70s. His love of history shaped countless family memories, especially summer camping trips across the country, where museums stop (particularly military museums) meant carefully reading every single placard. Those journeys instilled a lifelong appreciation for history, service, and learning in his children.
John had a special love for children, often enjoying quiet walks through the park, content to sit and watch them play. Proud of his heritage, he was a devoted member of the Grant and Forrester Clans and delighted in attending Highland Games, celebrating his Scottish roots whenever possible.
Above all, John was a man of strong character, who treated everyone he met with respect, kindness, and dignity. His steady presence, gentle wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A memorial service will be held Saturday January 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Garden Plaza of Greenbrier Cove 4586 Forsythia Way
Collegedale, TN 37363
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in honor of John to: Trinity Grace Presbyterian Church 4020 Bailey Circle Loganville, GA 3005
Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.
Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.