Strafford Grady's Obituary
Service for Reverend Strafford Grady, 62, Lufkin, is scheduled for 2 p.m., Saturday, February 25, 2023, at the First Baptist Church Lufkin, 106 E. Bremond Ave. Burial will follow in the Davis Memorial Garden.
Strafford Eugene Grady was Grady to most who knew him. To his wife, he was affectionately known as
"Fluff/'. Strafford was the eldest son born to the late Freddie Ayres and Barbara Stegall Grady Ayres on June 30, 1960, in Lufkin, Texas. Strafford professed Christ at an early age, was saved by God's grace and baptized into the fellowship of Christ in 1964. His church affiliations include Long Chapel CME Church, Church of The Living God PGT, (Pillar Ground and Truth) and Church of The Living God, CWFF (Christian Workers for Fellowship) in Lufkin, Texas. Strafford attended public school in Lufkin, Texas. He would graduate; then pursue higher learning at Sam Houston State University.
Strafford later married Cedric Hunt Grady. To this union of 32 years were born a son, Kendall Jordan Grady, and Jasmine Nicole Grady. Strafford was a kind and loving partner to his wife Cedric, as well as an amazing father to his daughter's Brittany, and Jasmine, and to his son Kendall. Most memorable is his unconditional love for his family. He will be remembered for his admonishment to all to always use kind". That is exactly how he chose to live his life. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Strafford managed his challenges with strength, grace, and integrity. He wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. On his final day, he was surrounded by family, who he adored more than anything else in life.
Strafford was unselfish with his gift and was always willing and ready to offer his gift to the masses whenever asked. He seldom said no.
In 1996, while a member of Church of The Living God, CWFF, Strafford was appointed, and ordained as deacon by Elder Earl Whitaker, Pastor. He surrendered to God's call into the Ministry in 2015 and was licensed by the Church of The Living God, CWFF (Christian Workers for Fellowship) in 1996 under the Pastorage of Ricky Peterson. He served as Deacon, Trustee and Music Ministry President for more than
15 years. In 2017, by the leading of the Holy Spirit, Reverend Grady and his family united with the Goodwill Baptist Church. In March of 2018, he would elevate and preach his initial sermon becoming licensed to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. At his demise, Reverend Grady and his family were still united with Goodwill Baptist Church, under the Pastorage of Bishop ME Lyons, Senior Pastor.
Community choir affiliations include Church of The Living God, CWFF, Lufkin Interdenominational
Choir, The Majestics, The Spiritual Silverstone's, The Lawrence Kirksey Crusaders, Goodwill Baptist Church Choir, The East Texas Chapter of The Gospel Music Workshop of America, Robert Ayers and The Voices of Christ, Temple #1 Church of The Living God, Gregg Garcia and the Family Circle, Reverend B.J. Fears choir of Lufkin, He was lead on Lufkin ICs live recording at New Zion Baptist Church with the late Charles Tyrone to name a few.
Strafford leaves to cherish his wife Cedric Hunt Grady; Son, Kendall Jordan Grady; Daughters Brittany
Cheri Grady Smith, and Jasmine Nicole Grady; Grandchildren Elijah Smith, Isaiah Smith, Leslie Smith.
Brothers Calvin Ayres (Susan); Baron Ayres (Ceddrick); Nieces Ashley Nicole Ayres; Teronda Brown; Katrina Ayres; Nephews Ashford Ayres (Latawnya); Ryan Blake Malone (Lindsay) and De'Metrius Dirden; along with a host of other beloved friends and family.
Strafford was proceeded in death by his parents Freddie and Barbara Ayres; Brothers Ronald Ayres and Kendall Wade Kelley; and Grandmother Leona Brown.
What’s your fondest memory of Strafford?
What’s a lesson you learned from Strafford?
Share a story where Strafford's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Strafford you’ll never forget.
How did Strafford make you smile?