Pastor James C. Grant

Pastor James Grant, 90, of Plainwell, passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at Ely Manor in Allegan. Jim was born September 6, 1932 in Cook County, IL, the son of Donald and Jessie (Jemison) Grant. Jim attended Albion College and Garret Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois, where he met his future wife, Alice Sanders. They were united in marriage on June 20, 1959 in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Jim began his ministry with the United Methodist Church serving the communities of Almena and Glendale near Paw Paw. He would later go on to serve the communities of Dowagiac, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Byron Center, Otsego, Marion, and Cadillac, retiring from the ministry in 1999. He remained an active parishioner at the First United Methodist Church of Plainwell. In retirement, he and Alice enjoyed traveling, including an especially memorable trip to Israel.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Alice, in 2008. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Robert and Donald. He is survived by two sons, David and William Grant; and two grandchildren, Elyn and Uriah Grant.

Family and friends may gather from 10 – 11 a.m. Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Plainwell Chapel, 120 S. Woodhams St., Plainwell, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Pastor Jennifer Ward officiating. He will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery, Plainwell.

While visiting Jim’s webpage at amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook by lighting a candle, and/or sharing a memory with the family. Memorial contributions may be directed to the First United Methodist Church of Plainwell. The family is being cared for by Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Plainwell Chapel, 120 S. Woodhams St. (269) 685-5881.