Grady Lee Kiker

It is with sadness that we share the passing of a dear, kind, and gentle soul - Grady Lee Kiker; but we rejoice in the knowledge that he has gone on to be with his Heavenly Family. Grady was born in Jasper, Georgia to Edward A. Kiker, Sr and Annie Lou (Poe) Kiker. 

He was the last of their 12 children.  He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Luther, Carl, Edward, John, Walter, and JB; and his sisters Irene, Mildred Watkins, Jesse Parker, Lily (aka Bill) Hart, and Pearl Nix.  Grady had a great love for his siblings and often shared stories about their escapades as they all helped “guide” throughout his childhood. His family was very important to him, and he often took care of his aging siblings.  He was also predeceased by his life partner, Perry Bonds. He is survived by nieces Joeanne Wilkinson (Maryville, TN), Gayle Massey (Rock Hill, SC), Patti Gay (Columbia, SC), Kim Williston (Newberry, SC), Donna Maloof (Conyers, GA); nephews Edward Kiker (Purcellville, VA), Frank Kiker (Newberry, SC) Ricky Kiker (Newberry, SC) and special family Donald Bonds (Judy) of Winnsboro SC.

Upon graduation from Jenkinsville High School where he enjoyed playing basketball, he joined the Air Force serving 14 years.  He often said his military service provided many opportunities to learn and visit places in this country as well as abroad.  His favorites were Italy and Destin, Florida. He met many lifetime friends which he valued.

Grady was a very talented piano player – learning to play by ear during his teens. He could often be heard playing the piano at the church nearest his home in the early evenings after supper time. He played many tunes from hymns/gospels to ragtime/boogey woogey.  He had a wonderful sense of humor, loved being with friends, baking and decorating cakes, dining out, and playing cards. He always gave back with his generous and kind spirit. Even in his last days when his health declined quickly, when asked how he felt he replied, “Just wonderful”. Always the positive.

A memorial service for Grady will be held in Winnsboro at a later date. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Grady Lee Kiker, please visit our floral store.