Dad, thanks for everything you provided for us -from food on the table to Chappy the Appy...Colorado vacations at the Y and an amazing life in the woods.  No words can thank you enough for how hard you struggled for us, how much you sacrificed, and how much pain you must have endured in your life to take care of your family.  It was a crazy time and we were a tough bunch but I think at the end of the day, ya done good, Bill.  Jane

Mr. Grigsby was a well loved and admired personality in the Kansas City spectrum and did alot for his community.He is well appreciated here and know that he will be appreciated in heaven. My condolences to the family...

I remember Bill as a young sports announcer in Joplin, Mo. , must have been about 1951 or so.   He gave play by plays for the Joplin Miners, a Yankee farm team.   Fun, personable, and gave us great stories.   It's been fun to follow his announcing here in Kansas City.
Blessings to all the family.    Rev. Helen Liston

Mr. Grigsby mentored me when I was working at Western Union. I only met him once but he made an impression when I was young and just starting out as a teletype operator. I ran his copy for him and I have never forgotten him in that moment. He has touched many. Rest in Peace

Bill Grigsby walked the life that most men envy.  He was a kind and good hearted man that I am certain was well received in heaven.

Bill, you have and always will be a true Kansas City treasure!  Thank you, thank you for your years of dedication to the community.  You will be greatly missed.

My family and I are so blessed to have known you.  We will never forget your generous spirit, tremendous humor and wit!  

In regard to your next chapter, I know my Dad has an open seat waiting for you at the table.  He's ready to play gin again!

Peace and comfort to your sweet family in the coming days and months ahead.

Love & Blessings,

Victoria (daughter of the late Dr. Ray W. Baker Jr.)

Grigs sat down at my regular lunch table at the Italian Gardens where I hosted my lawyers and said, "Lantz, you know how the Plaza is lit up at Christmas, we ought to do that for Parkville."  I said, "Who is WE Grasshopper?"  He said, "I meant The Lantz Welch Charitable Foundation". I said, "You're crazy, but look into it."  I have forgotten how many years & dollars it took, but it became "Christmas On The River".
Here's to Grigs!!!!  The epitome of enthusiasm, affability & lovability.
/S/ Lantz Welch

I know how much the friendship of Bill and Fran meant to my parents, Leon and Marian Faddis.  They always loved his big personality and charm.  We miss them, and we will miss Bill, too.  Fran - please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Debbie Faddis Brannian

"Grigs" was always positive and laughing. He was a hugh KC Chiefs fan, he loved the game, the players, and his game-day announcing was always entertaining!

The memories are from long ago, but ever so vivid. The Schlitz warehouse. Chiefs training camp at William Jewel and the games at both stadiums. Miniature golf in N.K.C. He was larger then life, indefatigable and greatly admired. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I GOT TO KNOW BILL IN THE LAST 10 OR 15 YEARS AND ALWAYS LOOKED FORWARD TO OUR VISITS BECAUSE HE WOULD ALWAYS TELL A STORY THAT HAD ME CRYING WITH LAUGHTER! I WILL MISS HIM.  EVERYONE WILL.

So sorry to read of Bill's passing . He truly was an icon, a friendly smile to see. He represented a great community. We will truly miss him. Peter Richardson, Oxnard, Ca.

Condolences to Bill's family, may he rest in peace.
I was privledged to work with Bill on some commitee's when belonging to the "Ad Club" in the early 60's. I was new to the business arena and didn't know how things were done. It didn't take Bill very long to figure me out and not long at all to educate me in the fine arts of either dazzeling em with my personality or baffeling em with my BS. 
I have missed Bill over these years and have enjoyed his "chatter" on the Chief's games. I will miss his voice now. .......God's speed Bill.

Thank you Bill for the many years of friendship you had with the wrestling community. Your efforts made it very easy for those that followed you and continued your soft spoken words.
Toyour family I express my deepest of sympathy and offer a prayer to help ease your loss.

My condolences to the Grisby family.  Thank you for sharing a great man with us.  His devoted love of the Chiefs will not be surpassed.  Bill Grisby is a true Ambassador to Kansas City.  Rest in Peace good friend.  It's a BEAUTIFUL DAY IN HEAVEN!!!!!

A Parkville resident myself, at one Christmas on the River celebration, Bill told my kids that at English Landing, there are the worlds largest ornaments. The kids were quite excited to see them. It was hot air balloons.  Bill always gave to the community.  He touch our lives. When I hear it's a B-u-e-a-t-i-f-u-l Day, it will always remind me of you.  Thanks

Condolences to the family.  He will be missed.

Marvin and I went into a Doctor's office and saw Bill at the counter laughing and trying to find out how long he would have to wait.  They were putting him off.   The girl asked his name and asked him to spell it and asked again.  He said "You don't know who I am do you?  She got befuddled.  He asked her if she knew who the Chiefs were.  She got more befuddled.  He was enjoying it all.  He looked around and saw us and turned back and said "Look over there.  My two lawyers just got here and you had better get the doctor.  They were stunned.  He came over and sat down and they flew!  We enjoyed the entire thing.  From being at public event and from living in the same community for over 40 years we enjoyed every moment of our contact with Bill.  Thank you Fran for sharing him with us!

To Bill's family,
Bill was a gentleman everywhere he went. He always made sure that every woman was escorted to their car and safe.  He was always so delightful when he would introduce me in a parade.  He was a true friend and always remembered me.  I will miss him and his "Beautiful" voice.  Former Platte County Clerk

Fran,

We were so sorry to hear about Bill.  What a wonderful man he was and what an asset to the Kansas City community.  Even though we left Kansas City in 1982, we have so many pleasant memories of being with the two of you, especially on trips with the Royal Lancers.  A special memory is of being in Portofino, Italy in probably 1993 and seeing Bill standing in the street singing an Italian song.  We did want to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very sad time.

From Shakespeare's "Cymbelline," Act IV, Scene 2:

Fear no more the heat o' the sun,
Nor the furious winter's rages;
Thou thy worldly task hast done,
Home art gone, and ta'en thy wages;
Golden lads and girls all must,
As chimney-sweepers, come to dust.

Fear no more the frown o' the great;
Thou art past the tyrant's stroke:
Care no more to clothe and eat;
To thee the reed is as the oak:
The sceptre, learning, physic, must
All follow this, and come to dust.

Fear no more the lightning-flash,
Nor the all-dreaded thunder-stone;
Fear not slander, censure rash;
Thou hast finished joy and moan;
All lovers young, all lovers must
Consign to thee, and come to dust.

No exorciser harm thee!
Nor no witchcraft charm thee!
Ghost unlaid forbear thee!
Nothing ill come near thee!
Quiet consummation have;
And renownéd be thy grave!

To Fran and all her family.  Bill brought so much joy to all of us especially when he came through the Parkville Farmers Market, everyone loved him. He will be remembered especially in our prayers. May God give you many blessings durning this sad time. Sincerely Ellen and Bud Anderson

Fran, 
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our prayers. Bill was always fun to be around and will be missed.

My deepest sympathy to the family.  Bill was loved by so many and will be missed.  I am privileged to have called him a friend.

I worked with Bill during the founding days of Christmas on the River in Parkville. The enthusiasm and leadership he provided are why it continues to be a celebration the community looks forward to year after year. Thank you, Bill.

Kansas City has lost a legend! We will miss you Grigs!

Bill will always be remembered as a true Kansas City legend. My Uncle Frank Fensom introduced me to Bill and I was truely honored to be his friend. We shared some wonderful times at the Woodlands over the years. His advice that he shared with us when we started Third And Long with Derrick Thomas will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace my friend. Its a beautiful day in Kansas City for your visitation!

My condolences to the Grigsby family.  Mr. Grigsby was a person who made you feel like a part of the Chiefs family rather than just a fan.  He recognized all of our investment in the teams we love no matter how small.  Thank you for being such a wonderful part of our lives.

RIP Grigs. Thank you for being such a big part Kansas City and a great influence on my life! You'll be missed

Once again Kansas City has lost a Good Down to Earth Gentleman. He was so REAL , he NEVER met a stranger.
Rest in Peace, Mr. Grigsby.

Bill was truly a KC hero.  He certainly touched our lives and he will be sorely missed.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Fran,
We are so sorry for your loss, you and the family are in our prayers. Everytime we saw Bill he was 'boundless energy and smiles'  He will be missed.

Tom and Madeline Johnson~ Parkville MO

At the annual Sports Show at Bartle Hall, back about 20 years ago, I first talked to Bill, being a fellow Parkville citizen, and each year at the Show,up until I moved to New Mexico 10 years ago, we would talk about how the Royals, Chiefs, Parkville, and anything else that came to mind were doing. Just a couple of guys from the ville catching up. Adios Old Friend.

Dear Jane,
  I am so sorry to learn about the passing of your father. He will be greatly missed. I would love so much to rekindle our friendship. Your's truly Jody.

I first met Bill Grigsby 20 odd years ago @ Arrowhead as I work in and around communications there during the season. An organization I was a member of was needing a guest speaker so, I took a chance and asked Bill if he would address our group. He not only agreed but, refused payment of any kind. He said it was his pleasure to share his many experiences and humor with our group. No ego just "Bill".
He was truly the best spokesman for  Kansas City, sports, and humanity. He will be missed by thousands that he touched.

FRAN
OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU.LOVE
BOB AND MARGARET

Dear Fran and Family,
What can I say that hasn't already been said about Bill? He was a terrific supporter of Kansas City and friend to countless people. I treasure the time we spent on the CVB board in the late 80's. I will miss him greatly.
God bless all of you at this time of sorrow. Bill was just special. That's all there is to it. I'm glad he touched my life.

Thank you Bill for being the "voice" for Kansas City sports.  Rest in Peace.

There have been many people throughout Kansas City's history who have been larger than life. We've seen Mayors and other dignitaries, Sports heroes, Philanthropists and people in Business who have shaped Kansas City into our hometown. Bill was a simple man who held his own amongst the greatest of men. Laisser le bon ton rouleau, mon ami ... you will be sorely missed.

I last saw Bill at the parkville paws in the park dog walk when he was the emcee and I just had to say to him as I walked by the stage,"It's a beautifull day".He immediantly came back over the microphone with a big loud---"It's a beautifull day in Parkville."I will miss his voice and spirit big time!After he retired I knew there would never be another one to compare him to!I still have plenty of audio tapes of old chiefs with him on them so I can listen to him any time as the future moves on!!! I miss him greatly! Grigsby family-You all have my deepest thoughts and prayers!

My sympathies to the family of this giant of a man, who gave so much and helped so many.  He was a friend to the whole community and will be sorely missed.

Fran, Jim, Paul, Ann, Jane and Billy.
We love you guys. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
Jay and Marla Copeland. Mike and Kristina Long.

Thought's and prayers  go to you and your family Ann.  god bless -Kathy Hylton Robb

Dear Fran, Ann, Mike, Sarah, Paul and extended family.

Am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Bill.

Will never forget meeting him and eating breakfast together.  Such a force of life, cheerfulness and enthusiasm for everyone around.

I lost my father, Bill, 7 years ago.  While both Bills were forces in their own right, they are still our loved ones.

I hope the coming days bring you comfort in knowing how much you loved each other.

All our sympathies - Will Poulson and Lisa Cambridge

My prayers go out to the family of this GREAT man at this time.  Bill will be missed by everyone lucky enough to have known him. This is indeed a big loss for the City of Kansas City.

It was always a beautiful day for football with you behind the mic Bill.  The entire Kansas City community thanks you for all the memories you shared with us through your beautiful words of wisdom that extended beyond the game, Kansas City and to all those who tuned in on those Sunday afternoons to hear you.  Bless you for all that you have done and send our best Chiefs wishes to Lamar Hunt, Hank Stram, Derrick Thomas, Joe Delaney and all the other big Chiefs in the sky.  Best wishes to your family as well

I was always a fan of Bill's.  I loved listening to him on the radio and his wonderful sense of humor.  I remember listening to him and Jim Moore on 81 KCMO in the mornings.  They were absolutely hilarious!  Sometimes, he had a more subtle sense of humor also.  I remember several years ago, Bill was on the Chiefs radio broadcast from Cleveland.  Bill stated how the press box was "about 40 stories" above the playing field.  On the next play, the Browns went for it on 4th and 1.  As soon as the play ended, Bill stated, "it looks like they are short about an inch".  What a wonderful man Bill was.  All of KC will miss Bill greatly.  May God be with your entire family and comfort you during this difficult time.

Mr and Mrs Grisby were some of the best people I knew growing up in St. Therese  Little FLower parish, my parents  had good times with them and others. I always thought Paul,a classmate, was so lucky to have his dad work with the Chiefs and get to go to trainig camp with them .All the Grisgby kids were  great,condolences to Mrs Grgsby and all of  them .Both  my parents are gone now  this seems a little like losing a family memeber also .  Heaven is a better place with Mr. Grigsby  there .

There have been many people throughout Kansas City's history who have been larger than life.  We've seen Mayors and other dignitaries, Sports heroes, Philanthropists and people in Business who have shaped Kansas City into our hometown.  Bill was a simple man who held his own amongst the greatest of men.  Laisser le bon rouleau, mon ami ... you will be sorely missed.

My condolences to the Grigsby family and many thanks for sharing Bill with Kansas City. He brought to life the games that he broadcast to those of us that couldn't attend.  I remember meeting him many years ago and during the Big 8 basketball tournament at Kemper, would always make my to Sutera's whre Bill would be holding court. He was one of a kind and we will all miss him

We have fond memories of Bill. Please know that the family is in our thoughts and prayers. Fondly, The George Surprise Family

Bill was my personal childhood friend along with Merle Harmon.  I would sit by my radio and pray for the Kansas City A's to win.  Bill Grigsby was my childhood connection to Kansas City baseball in 1955.

God Bless Him!

Bud Weneck, Kansas City

Jim,
I was very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing.  Please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

To Fran & Family,

May God give you peace and welcome Bill into His loving arms. We're all better people today for having known Bill.

Fran --- all of us at the Kansas City Media Legends send you our deep sympathy -- Grigs was one of a kind and we'll miss him --- Pat Paton

Our sons were in a small band when teenagers.One day Mr Grigsby came in to Trinty Lutheran Hospital where I worked and asked if we could watch his suitcase. When he returned I told him how I had known him. We exchanged information on our sons. He was a very nice man. I never saw him again except on TV. To his wife and children I am sorry for your loss. B. Messbarger

Bill You were BEAUUUTIFUL!!!!!! RIP. Big Al Olathe...

Bill was the greatest of men I knew,no matter who you were if Bill liked you and considered you a friend, you were a friend for life. He'll be announcing those great games in heaven. God Bless You Bill and your Family.

my heart goes out to all of you. although i never met bill, i ,like many,feel he was a friend. that smile, that voice...one of a kind. no matter how many times i walk down in parkville i always stop and read the dedication at the baseball field. when i read of his passing i cried because to me it really was like losing a friend. my prayers are with you and i hope you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you must have. thank you for sharing him with all of us in kansas city.

My deepest sympathies.  Mr. Grigsby made a huge impact when I met him in 1976.  He had been a favorite announcer but his professionalism and kindness showed what a great man he was.  God bless and keep you

All of Kansas City will miss you dearly. You are forever in our hearts...a true legend.

Sorry for the loss of Bill,  he was a Kansas City landmark for all the years.   God bless him and the familyTT

OBITUARY

William W. Grigsby

February 13, 1922 – February 26, 2011

McGilley Antioch Chapel

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