Charles N. Grantham of Brockton, formerly of Bridgewater passed away on October 7, 2009 after a yearlong battle with lung cancer. Charlie, son of the late Charles and Doris Grantham was born in Eastman, Ga. He joined the U.S. Navy at 19. His tour of duty began in Sasebo, Japan. Charlie was stationed on the ice breakers U.S.S. Burton Island, U. S. S. Atka, and U.S.S. Edisto. After his naval tour of duty he enlisted in the U. S. Army Reserves and was attached to the 94TH ARCOM in Bedford, Ma. Master Sergeant Grantham was employed at the Boston Army Base and the Watertown Arsenal as a mechanic and contract officer. Charlie loved to tinker with machinery. He could fix anything from an old lawn mower to restoring a 65 Mustang. He was a superb carpenter whose work will live on in the homes he helped renovate. He was a kind and generous man, who passed on his knowledge and skills to his sons and to anyone who wanted to learn from him. He was a wonderful teacher who had patience and always provided encouragement. Charlie also had a zest for life. He loved to dance and always enjoyed a good party. Most of all Charlie loved his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. His loving spirit will always be remembered by family and friends.
He is survived by his sons David W. Grantham and his wife Jenifer of Glen Gardener, N .J. and Jeffery C. Grantham of San Bruno, Ca. His grandchildren Jillian Z. Grantham and Alexander K. Grantham both of Glen Gardener, N.J. and his devoted life partner of 19 years Barbara Early. Also her daughter Karen Mullin, husband Richard, and their daughter Mia all of Freetown, Ma.Survived by his siblings Majorie W. Stevens, Merrell Hall, James Grantham, Carolyn Holder, Sarah Bragg and the late Kathleen Pitts all of Macon, Georgia. Also survived by his dear friend of 52 years and former wife Diane Moloney.
A Memorial visitation will be held at the Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont Street (Rte 123) Saturday Oct. 17, from 2-5pm with a Service at 4:30pm and Military Honors. Donations may be made in memory of Charles to the American Lung Association, 460 Totten Pond Rd., Suite 400, Waltham, MA 02451, for online donations click here or to Old Colony Hospice, One Credit Union Way, Randolph, MA 02368for online donations click here