Imorette Grant

Mary Imorette Grant, 94, died October 18, 2026. She was born here in Chattanooga on October 25, 1931, Imorette as she was known will be remembered for a life richly lived marked by devotion to family, steady resilience through life’s changes, a kind heart that made room for others, and a warm sense of humor that could lighten a moment and brighten a day.

From an early age, Imorette’s gifts were evident. A naturally gifted pianist, she could play by ear an ability that spoke to both talent and joy. In her younger years, she also brought that same spirit and energy to school life as head cheerleader at Hixson High School.

Imorette began her working life at Blue Cross Blue Shield and later served as a substitute teacher in the Hamilton County Schools.

After the death of her beloved husband, Herman Grant, Imorette stepped forward with strength and determination, becoming President of Herman Grant Company until her retirement carrying on with resolve and purpose while continuing to care deeply for those around her.

Imorette was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Grant. She is survived by her daughter Paula Grant Shuford (David) and her son, Terry Michael Grant; her bonus daughter Jennifer Dobbs Hill; granddaughter Savannah Shuford Malerbi (Thomas); grandsons Chaz Shuford (Ashley) and David Shuford, Jr. (Caroline) of Wayne, PA; great-grandchildren Scarlett Tice and Marigold Rhodes Malerbi; her brother, Bobby Dixon; her sister, Montress Barker; several nieces and nephews; and her faithful cat, Jack.

Those who knew Imorette knew the comfort of her presence thoughtful, encouraging, and genuinely invested in the hopes of others. She was the sort of person who urged people toward their dreams and gave her heart to those in need, not for recognition, but simply because it was who she was.

Imorette found happiness in music and in motion playing the piano and organ, traveling, and especially enjoying trips to the beach in Florida. Her love for people also showed through her service: she volunteered in many ways over the years, from being a Girl Scouts and Brownie leader to supporting the Chattanooga Area Literacy Movement.

The family will receive friends at Chattanooga Funeral Home-North Chapel on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Imorette’s Life will be held at Hamilton Memorial Gardens privately where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Herman.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Zofia Phillips, her treasured caregiver, and to Hospice of Chattanooga, especially Travis and Jess, and to her Northside Presbyterian family.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Northside Presbyterian Church, 923 Mississippi Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37405, https://northsidepresbyterian.org/donate or to Hospice of Chattanooga, 2030 Hamilton Pl Blvd Ste. 220, Chattanooga, TN 37421, https://www.hospiceofchattanooga.org/make_a_donation.php

Please share your thoughts and memories of Imorette online with the family at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel has been entrusted with her arrangements.