Thomas Henry Grant (Dillard) was born July 3, 1925 to Pizzia Dollarson and Elijah Grant. He accepted Christ later in life at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church. There he became an avid reader, student, and passionate teacher of the word of God. He served in several capacities in his church including Sunday school teacher, treasurer, deacon, and trustee. Thomas forwent completing his formal education in order to provide for his family. However, he would later go on to earn his general education diploma. Despite not pursuing a formal education, he was a man of great intelligence. He craved knowledge, read and took notes constantly, and could hold an intelligent conversation about any topic presented. Thomas always sought to serve others, including his family, friends, church members and anyone in need in the community. He loved his family and friends fiercely and would give them his last, although it might come with a smart quip. He was a man of few emotional words but presented his love on full display through his actions. He challenged those he loved with assertive intellect and quick wit. He wanted to guarantee his people were equipped to speak in any room and hold conversations with persons of every caliber. Thomas believed the people in his community should be able to thrive and live without the limitations imposed on people of color. That desire lead him to become the first president of the NAACP in Lawrence County. While working a full time job at TVA, he and Mr. Elijah Diggs worked tirelessly and were determined to bring racial equality to the school systems in Lawrence county. They and many others worked until the schools were integrated and black children were provided the same rights as others. Thomas also extended that service to his country by serving in The United States Navy. He believed that's where his culinary expertise began. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Mary Alice Davis Grant, his siblings Elijah, Elliot, and James Grant, Mary Grant Satchell, Catherine Grant Lightfoot, Delilah Grant Mason, Earlene Grant Brown, Audra Grant Johnson, and Ruth Grant. Thomas's memory will forever be cherished by his four daughters; Deirdra E. Grant, Bobbie J. Grant, Cassandra (Roger) Addison, and Monique S. Grant; two sons, Al Thomas Grant and Oliver Grant; beloved grandson Darius Grant; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, god-children; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.