Frederic James Grant III

Frederic James Grant III, age 95, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026. His life was defined by deep faith in God, devoted service to his community, and a distinguished career in engineering and public service.

Born in Zanesville in 1930, Fred was the grandson of Samuel A. Weller, founder of the renowned Weller Pottery. He received his early education at The Hill School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, and earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering from Yale University. He later pursued additional studies at the University of Southern California and The Ohio State University, earned an MBA from Ohio University, and received his Professional Engineer designation in 1958.

Fred served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy during the Korean War and later as a Captain in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, retiring after 29 years of service. His civilian career spanned more than four decades and included roles as Zanesville Public Service Director and Chief Engineer, Director of Utilities and Public Works for the City of Zanesville, and Director of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.

An educator and consultant, Fred taught engineering and surveying courses at Muskingum Area Technical College and maintained an active practice specializing in wastewater planning, heavy construction, and public infrastructure. He also served in leadership roles with several engineering and utility organizations and with the family-owned Grant Construction Company. He was a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers.

Service to others was central to Fred’s life. He was a charter member and past president of the Zanesville Daybreak Rotary Club, maintaining 25 years of perfect attendance, and helped establish community programs including the Miracle League and Literacy Outreach. He also served many civic and charitable organizations throughout the region.

Together with his beloved wife, Mary Miller “Bebe” Grant, whom he married in 1950, Fred was deeply committed to philanthropy and cultural preservation. They were Lifetime Board Members of the Zanesville Museum of Art, and Fred worked to ensure that significant pieces of the Weller family pottery collection were donated for public benefit. In 2005, Fred and Bebe were honored with the Genesis Community Service Award. Their shared motto was, “Serve God by doing good for others.”

Fred was a devoted member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a Master Mason for more than 50 years, an accredited scuba diver, a licensed amateur radio operator (W8FJG), and a life member of the National Rifle Association.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bebe. He is survived by his sons, Frederic J. Grant IV (Linda) and John Alexander Grant (Carolyn); his daughter, Pam Rasmussen (Patrick); his grandchildren; and extended family.

Frederic J. Grant III will be remembered for his steadfast faith, quiet leadership, and lifelong commitment to serving others.

Services will be private, with arrangements to be announced at a later date.