The city of Russellville lost a compassionate friend and community asset with the death of Curtis Grissom, August 17, 2014, after an extended illness. Throughout his 86 years, he was known and loved for his gentle spirit, caring for others, love of family and community, and his honorable way of conducting business. Being a charter member of the Russellville Rotary Club, he was true to the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self”
Charles Curtis Grissom was born July 15, 1928. He lived his entire life in Franklin County, except for the four years he served in the United States Air Force.
Curtis is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jeanette A. Grissom; brothers Homer and Raymond (Betty) Grissom, and several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death: son Charles Larry Grissom, parents Robert Lee and Ada Jane Bendall Grissom, sisters Ollie Mae Hester, Emma Whitman, and Thelma Pace; brothers Hobart, Lonnie, Walter, Linnie Olin, Dewey, Albert, Earl, and Ford.
Curtis spent most of his working career in the furniture business, retiring as owner of Village Furniture Mart, operated by him and Jeanette for many years. He also served his community as Secretary to the Russellville Water and Sewer Board since 1982. Throughout his life, he loved participating in family events, traveling, golf, tending his yard, watching Russellville High School and University of Alabama sports, and being an active member of the First Baptist Church of Russellville.
Pinkard Funeral Home of Russellville will be handling funeral arrangements. Visitation will be Monday, August 18, 2014, 12 noon until 2 p.m. with funeral services to follow at 2 p.m. Officiating will be Rev. Patrick Marlin and Rev. Richard Parker. Interment will be at Franklin Memory Gardens.
Pallbearers will be nephews, Larry Thornton, Rodney Woodruff, Johnny Alsbrooks, and Robin, Mark, Tim, David, and Curt Grissom.
Honorary bearers will be Water Board Member Dan Terry, Doug Clement, Richard Tutich, Joe Graham and Wanda Myrick along with members of T. R. Pritchard Sunday School Class and friends, Delano Lawrence and Maxwell Snider.
Memorials can be made to the First Baptist Church of Russellville Building Fund or a charity of your choice.
