David E. Grantham

David E. Grantham, 68, of DeRidder, LA, passed from this life on January 5, 2018.

David had a passion for nature and beautiful gardens. He held memberships in the American Rhododendron Society and Azalea Society of America. He was active in the Siuslaw Chapter in Florence, Oregon and the Southeastern Chapter in western North Carolina. His own gardens in Dallas, Texas and Maggie Valley, North Carolina were dominated by azaleas and rhododendrons; and he never hesitated to show off his garden and share his knowledge with anyone.

He was the co-founder and vice president of the North Cliff Neighborhood Association and was instrumental in gaining Conservation District status through close association with the City of Dallas. He never met a stranger and would immediately introduce himself and engage in conversation. David will be forever remembered by all of his friends and neighbors for his devotion to actively improving the quality of life in his neighborhood.

David was a graduate of McNeese State University.  He studied classical voice and appeared in productions with The Dallas Opera as well as in many musical venues in Texas and Louisiana.

Those left to cherish his memory are his two sisters, Linda K. Johnson and husband Johnny of DeRidder, LA and Diane Jane Pederson and husband Brandt of Lake Charles, LA; a host of other family and friends; and his friend and business partner of 35 years, Christopher Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ruby Grantham.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude’s Hospital or Bird Haven ( www.bird-haven.org ). A special thank you to the Woodlands Nursing Home and St. Joseph Hospice.