James Garry Grier, 73, of Rainbow City, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2025, after battling an illness.

Garry was born on September 15, 1951, in Gadsden, Alabama. He graduated from Gadsden High School in 1969, where he was a member of the Tiger Band. He went on to graduate from the National Aviation Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1972, fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot. Garry later returned to Gadsden, where he worked as an advertising executive and a pilot for the Gadsden Times. In 1978, he joined his father's jewelry business, Grier Jewelers, founded in 1941. Over time, he became the owner and president, working there for 30 years. The business was built on honesty and integrity, and he valued both his employees and customers. He was an American Gem Society (AGS) Registered Jeweler and a Graduate Gemologist with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Garry volunteered on his church's production team and served as a deacon. He was also a licensed ham radio operator (KE4WPL). In his free time, Garry enjoyed watching Alabama football and World War II movies, and loved grilling for family gatherings. Known for his joy, kindness, humility, and willingness to help others, Garry was a loving Husband, Dad, Pop-Pop, and Brother. He was deeply loved by those who knew him and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by daughter, Lindsey Gage (Asa); son, Joseph Grier; niece, Leslie Varney (Jon); grandchildren, Gabriel (Kathleen), Landon, Madeline, and Collin; great-granddaughter, Lucina; brother, Marvin Grier (Julie); and many other relatives and friends.

Garry is preceded in death by parents, Gladys Tidwell Grier and James Cleveland Grier; wife, Cindy Chilton Grier.

The family expresses gratitude to the staff at Enhabit Hospice of Rainbow City for their compassionate care and exceptional support.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Crestwood Memorial Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 PM.