William Donald Grider, Sr. passed away February 2, 2016 at home with his loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Martin Grider and Dovie Dee Busbin Grider. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara Ann Sharp Grider; three children: William “Don” Grider, Jr. (Kathy), Dianna Grider Stoner (Todd), and Michael Grider (and friend Heather); five grandchildren: Christina Wilson, Donnie Grider, III, Jesse Stoner, Will Stoner, and Tess Stoner; five great-grandchildren; brother, Roger Grider (Carol); sister, Glenda Byrd; sister-in-law, Betty Loftin; and many nieces and nephews. Donald was a native Huntsvillian as were his parents and grandparents. Donald graduated from Butler High School where he was a star football and baseball player. He attended Arkansas State on a football scholarship. Donald also served our country as a member of the Alabama National Guard from 1951-1959. Donald was a devoted husband and father. He attended every event, baseball, football, basketball, softball and cheerleading in which his children participated, coaching many of them. He also attended every game his grandchildren played. He loved his grandchildren dearly. Donald worked at Thiokol Chemical Corporation for 8 years and retired from Huntsville Fire Department after 30 years as District Chief. Donald was a member of Jackson Way Baptist Church for 54 years and a member of Big Brothers Sunday School Class and was also an usher. Visitation will be Friday, February 5th from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Jackson Way Baptist Church followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Michael Cassity officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jackson Way Baptist Church Debt Retirement Fund. Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.
