Obituary of Willie J. Grier

TROY – On June 8, 2023, God decided to send for his singing angel, Willie James “Shorty” Grier. Willie James Grier was born on July 29, 1952, in Brewton, AL. to Willia Mae Grier and Willie James Grier, Sr. He was the eldest child and first son of eight children. Willie attended Albany Public Schools, Elementary through High School. Willie was outgoing and very outspoken person who loved to express himself freely. Willie loved all genres of music and had a beautiful melodic high tenor voice. Willie loved sports including basketball and boxing. Willie loved and adored his family sisters and brothers and especially his mom. Willie never had the blessing to have his own children, but he loved his sibling’s children which made him a favorite uncle to all his nieces and nephews. Willie “Shorty” Grier was well known and popular to all who knew him in Albany where he grew up and beyond. Willie will be sorely missed by everyone who loved him We will remember his beautiful vocal sounds. He leaves to cherish his memory his surviving siblings: Sandra Grier, Frances Grier, Tammy Silas, Cynthia Grier, Genine Mandevill. Willie was predeceased in death by his mother and father, and siblings: Claretta Rideout, Ronald Wayne Grier, and two nephews Ramel Terrell and Tramaine Mandevill. With so much love from his family and friends Willie “Shorty” Grier will be missed by all, especially his tenor voice which sings from Heaven above forever. The Family of Willie “Shorty” Grier would like to express their utmost thanks and love to everyone who gave us a card, a phone call, and a prayer or just a thought. We also wish to thank Simple Choices, Inc. (Funeral Home) for their respectful care and service to our family. Relatives and Friends are invited to honor Willie’s memory on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, with a visitation from 1-2PM followed by a Home Going Celebration of Life at 2PM in the Chapel of Simple Choices, Inc., 218 2nd Avenue (corner of 104th Street) Troy, NY 12180. A repast will follow the ceremony, to be announced by the Funeral Director at the conclusion of the ceremony. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Grier Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com