Lani is survived by his children, Tatiana, Nevaeh, and Thomas Jr (TJ); his parents, Luecricia Granberry and Wardell Granberry; his brother, Leylan Mitchell; and his cousins who were like siblings to him; Alphonso (Al), Jr., Arnett, Cecily, Danielle, Joseph, Nicholas (Nick), Kathleen (Kat), Robert, Ronald (Ronnie), Stephanie, Sophia, and Veronica. He is also survived by his aunties and uncles, and numerous friends. He is predeceased by his grandparents, Arnett and Virginia Edwards, and Kathleen Perry.
Lani, also known as Tom, was a loving child and the pride of his mother and father, who stood by him and supported him throughout his life. He had a very close relationship with his cousins and was looked up to by them. Growing up Lani was protective of his younger cousins and is remembered for showing off his WWE “SmackDown” skills and was the first to do a flip on the trampoline. As he grew into his teens and beyond, he enjoyed gaming, bowling, and developed an interest in computers. Before his death he shared his plan to attend Macomb Community College to pursue his interests in computer technology. Music was another passion of Lani’s and he listened to artists like Tupac, DMX, E-40 and Jay-Z. He was a patient listener regardless of the topic or people involved.
Lani never withdrew his love of family, even during the most difficult of times. His friend Adam was a source of comfort and valued friendship throughout his life, and girlfriend Alise Hornik provided him with love and support. His greatest joy in life was being a father to his three children, who were first in his heart and partnered in their growth with the support of Ashley Wilson, their mother. Days before his death, Lani shared with friends and family his desire to reconnect with his faith where he found a new sense of peace. May his peace be a source of comfort for all of us left behind, and we can draw our strength in knowing his family beside him in heaven will provide him comfort, now and forever.
A visitation for Thomas will be held on Friday November 26, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Rosary service at 6:00 pm at Kaul Funeral Home, 35201 Garfield Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48035. An in-state at 10:30 am with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 am St. Pio of Pietrelcina, 18720 East 13 Mile Rd, Roseville, MI 48066.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kaulfuneralhome.com
for the Granberry family.