Henry Woodfin Grady

Henry Woodfin Grady, great-grandson of the American journalist and orator, died February 1st, 2017 surrounded by his family. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Harriett (Shedden) Grady, his brother, Robert and his first wife, Matilde (Tila Farrell).

Having just celebrated his 86th birthday, Henry leaves a strong legacy as a true southern gentleman. He was born on December 20, 1930 in Atlanta, Georgia, and was known by his family for his kind heart, quick laugh and playful spirit. He attended E. Rivers Elementary School, North Fulton High School and graduated from Middlesex School in Concord, Massachusetts. Henry graduated from Washington & Lee University in 1953, where he enjoyed his time as a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity and the challenge of college, majoring in French. After graduation, Henry served in the Navy and achieved the rank of Lieutenant. He had the privilege of serving on the USS Missouri during his tour of duty in the Korean War.

After his active naval service, he began his professional career at the Fulton National Bank (Bank South / NationsBank / Bank of America) in Atlanta as a Trust Officer. To further his professional career he studied law at the Woodrow Wilson School of Law, graduated and was admitted to the Georgia Bar. After a dedicated 45 year career in banking with one employer, Henry retired from Bank of America in 1995 as their senior Trust Officer in Atlanta.

While honored to serve his country, his greatest pride was his family. Henry married Matilde (Tila) Farrell Grady in 1961. Together they were the proud parents of Henry W. Grady III. Tila passed away in 1973 after which the two Henrys were their own “band of brothers” for over eight years. Henry married Carol Chambers Grady in 1981 and the two of them were blessings to each other as they watched their children and grandchildren grow and as they also had the chance to travel the world together.

Henry was a longtime active member of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta where he was a dedicated Deacon, Elder and lifelong member of the Open Door Class, which meant so much to him. He cherished his contributions to his beloved Atlanta as a member of the Buckhead Men’s Garden Club, as a long time Board member of Historic Oakland Cemetery, as an enthusiastic volunteer at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and as an Honorary Life member of the Piedmont Driving Club.

Henry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather – the true head of a caring household. He is survived by his wife, Carol, son Henry (Kim), step-children Holt Sanders (Joyce), David Sanders (Eleanor Feingold) and Julianne Schaaf (Steve), grandchildren Hannah, Sarah and Julia Grady; Holt Sanders; Avery Feingold and Max Sanders and Jack and Carter Schaaf.

The family will receive friends on Friday, February 3rd from 7:00PM to 9:00PM at Patterson’s Spring Hill. A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00AM on Saturday, February 4th at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, at the corner of Peachtree and 16th Street. A reception will follow the service in Fifield Hall at First Presbyterian.

While the family grieves the loss of Henry, they are assured that his body is now redeemed and restored and that he is with the Lord and many friends and family members who await him. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, Historic Oakland Cemetery or to the charity of your choice. The family would also like to express their sincere thanks to the Marcus Stroke and Neuroscience Center at Grady Hospital, Harbor Grace Hospice and Home Care Assistance for the deep care, concern and love they all graciously provided at the end of this great life.