Mary Sue Grissom

Mary Sue Grissom, age 89, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 pm on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Forrest Cemetery. Collier-Butler Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. The family will accept friends from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm at the funeral home prior to the service.

Born April 28, 1936, in Gadsden, AL, Mary Sue was a lifelong resident of her family property. A woman of academic excellence, she was the 1953 Valedictorian of Gaston School. She earned her BS in Home Economics from Jacksonville State University in 1956—where she also met the love of her life, Wayne Grissom-and later obtained advanced degrees from UAB.

A dedicated educator and member of Alpha Delta Kappa, Mary Sue taught Home Economics at her beloved Gaston School from 1956 until her retirement in 1998. Her passion for service extended beyond the classroom; she was a talented cook who frequently volunteered for school events and hosted holidays with family. Following her retirement, her vision and leadership were instrumental in founding the Northeast Etowah County Community Center.

Mary Sue was preceded in death by her parents, D.P. and Mattie Ross, and her husband, Wayne Grissom.

She is survived by her sons: Bobby (Mary Ellen) Grissom of Guntersville, Phillip (Suzette) Grissom of Gadsden, and Stephen (Susan) Grissom of North Carolina. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Mary Katherine, Erin, Jeremy, Kyle (Katie), Stephanie, and Katie Grissom; and her great-grandchild, Gunner Grissom.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to her caregivers, Emilie Huddleston, Jennifer Sheppard, and Veronica Brasher, for the exceptional care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Northeast Etowah County Community Center.