Myrtice Arlene Grant

Myrtice Arlene Grant was born April 7, 1935 in Rison, AR to Ferda and Willie Stocker. She was the sixth of 15 children. She grew up with her family on a 40-acre farm where she learned to care for animals and worked in the fields. Myrtice loved sports as a child and played basketball. She also loved the church. She gave her life to Christ at age 10. She finished high school in 1953. She moved to Southern California where she lived in Orange County with her older sister Jean.

Myrtice married Ivory Grant in March of 1957. They had six children together, two sons, Stanley and Mark and four daughters, Denita, Lisa, Sondra and Karen. The couple built their life together in Fontana, CA. During her marriage, Myrtice did not work outside of the home. Instead she was a homemaker and cared for their children. Myrtice and Ivory also worked together in the church. Myrtice and Ivory divorced in 1971.

After the divorce, Myrtice went back to school. She attended a vocational school, Operation Second Chance in San Bernardino and learned clerical skills. After receiving her certification, she went to work for the Mayor’s office in the city of Fontana. She also attended classes at Chaffey College. Even though Myrtice was working and raising her children she still made time for the church. She was comfortable working in all areas of the church. She worked in the Sunday school, in outreach and wherever she was needed. She was also a good singer and sang in many church choirs.

Myrtice was ordained as a Pastor in the CME church. She ministered to many. She knew no strangers and loved everyone. She always put others’ needs before her own.

When Myrtice wasn’t spending time with her children and 14 grandchildren she was working outside in her yard. She loved growing vegetables and planting flower gardens.

After Myrtice raised her own children she became a foster parent and cared for foster children for 10 years. After retiring from that field, she spent her time cooking and was well known for her biscuits, sweet potato pies and peach cobbler. She also loved reading and writing stories and poetry.

Myrtice passed away on May 1, 2015 in Redlands, CA. She was truly a tender-loving creature and will be missed by all.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 from 4:00-8:00 PM and a funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 1:00 PM, both at Montecito Mortuary in the Valley View Chapel with burial to follow at Montecito Memorial Park, Colton, Calfornia.