Charles E Grady III

May 11th, 1941 – September 19th, 2025

Charles “Chuck” E Grady passed away peacefully into the presence of the Lord on September 19th with his beloved wife at his side.

Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on May 11th, 1941, to Charles and Margaret Grady. Chuck grew up surrounded by faith, family and sports. He attended Northwest Classen High School before his family relocated to Naples, Italy, where he graduated from Forest Sherman School in 1959. While in Naples, he was proud to be named All-Conference Basketball player his senior year – a memory he treasured throughout his life.

Following in the footsteps of his parents, Chuck returned to Oklahoma to attend the University of Oklahoma where he became a proud member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. He graduated in 1963 with a degree in journalism and remained a lifelong and passionate Sooner fan. Following graduation, Chuck served his country in the United States Navy.

After completing his service, Chuck pursued his love of theatre at the Pasadena Playhouse Collage of Theatre Arts in California. Chuck met his wife, Nicki in California and they were married in 1968 and built a partnership filled with devotion, laughter and adventure.

Chuck’s professional journey took him into advertising and marketing, where he discovered his true calling. His career led the family to Austin, Texas in 1984 where he joined GSD&M. Over the years, his creativity and leadership contributed to the success of such brands as Red Lobster, Ruby Tuesday, O’Charleys, Chilli’s, Macaroni Grill and Coors. Chuck was not only talented at his craft but also deeply passionate about the people he worked with and the stories he helped tell.

In retirement, Chuck embraced his lifelong love of drawing and used his gift of caricature to bring joy to others whether volunteering with Make-A-Wish, supporting The School for the Deaf, or sketching for many high school reunions. His art always carried his humor, kindness and generosity.

Above all, Chuck cherished his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his wife, children and grandchildren – whether traveling together, sharing stories or simply being present. His pride in his family was boundless and his love will continue to guide them always.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Charles Elmer Grady Jr and his mother, Margaret Hammers Grady. He is survived by his wife, Nicola Daynes Grady, his son, Christopher Grady, and wife Kellye along with his stepson Rowan and son, Tanner, and his daughter Meagan Grady Didlake, and husband Mark, along with their children Harper and Hayes.

A private family service will be held at a later date with his ashes laid to rest at Remembrance Gardens in Austin, TX.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Emmaus Church Lakeway (Bright Horizons) Riverbend Church (Lighthouse) or Westlake Presbyterian Church (The Gathering)