Grady peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord on April 29, 2023, surrounded by family He was reunited with his parents Johnie and Gertie Mathis, mother-in-law and father-in-law George and Francis Adams, brothers Candler, L.C, Elmer, and Eugene Mathis, sister Glaydell Cook, and his good friend Walt Parker. He was born in 1939 in Cullowhee, North Carolina. After making his way to Washington state at age 19, he met and eventually married his wife, Terry. The family welcomed a daughter, Gina, and son, Jason, in the years that followed. Grady also helped raise his grandson, Colby, and was heavily involved in the lives of his other grandkids, Dustin, Levi, and Cecilia.
In September of 2021, Grady happily met his first great grandson, Malakai, who he would often be heard calling “Little Man” with a big grin. Those who knew Grady cherished hearing the stories of his youthful adventures, various careers including a “ready-mix truck” driver, and the famous quicksand story with his good friend Walt. Of all his stories and adventures, Grady considered his family to be the greatest, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Grady is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Terry, daughter Gina (Jeff), son Jason (Beth), and ex daughter-in-law Kelli. Grandchildren: Colby (Alana), Dustin (Deicy), Levi, and Cecilia, and great grandson, Malakai. Brothers Newman (Ann), Everett (Virginia), Dale, Larry (Linda), and David (Rita), and sister Evelyn (Charles). Several generations of nieces, nephews, cousins and the countless friends he made along his earthy journeys from Washington to North Carolina. As we await the day when we will be reunited with our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend, we cling to the comfort that only God can provide: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matt 5:4).
A celebration of life will be held on June 10 at 11 a.m., at Cascade Bible Church, 1119 E. Methow Valley Highway, Twisp. Come prepared to celebrate, listen to his favorite bluegrass music, and tell stories.
