John Thomas Grant
WATERVILLE – Born in Waterville, John Thomas Grant was a descendant of the Thomas family, founders of Thomas College. He was raised primarily by his mother, Freda Gagnon Grant, a woman of great resourcefulness, love, and grit.
John attended St. John School and Winslow public schools, received his BS in psychology from University of Southern Maine (where he was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity), and his Master of Social Work from the University of New England. A man of great kindness and generosity, John dedicated his career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to serving individuals facing severe challenges. He worked at the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, at various agencies as a mental health crisis worker, and ultimately became Director of Residential Services at Kennebec Behavioral Health.
John had extraordinary talents as a comic and could crack jokes even in the darkest moments (as the doctors and nurses caring for him during his last year could attest). He once appeared on the front page of the Waterville Morning Sentinel dressed in drag singing “You Are So Beautiful” into a mirror. His favorite activity was bantering with his son Casey Ford Grant, the greatest love and joy of his life. He was also an aficionado of the Blues and Rock-and-Roll, with a special fondness for Bob Dylan.
He died of cancer at home surrounded by family. Among those who will miss John the most are his son, Casey (and Casey’s mother, Teena French); and his wife, Ankeney Weitz; his sister, Amy; his stepson and stepdaughter, Miguel and Lily Schwiderke; his aunts, Linda Gagnon and Ida McDonnell; his best friend, Michael Leary; and his dogs, Sammy and Frisby.
Friends and family will meet to share their fondest memories of John from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Winslow Town Gazebo (114 Benton Ave.). A reception will follow.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
Those who wish to remember John with a gift might consider donating to the:
Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England
219 East Main St.
Ste 100B
Milford, MA 01757
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