Robert Haven Grizzard

ROBERT HAVEN GRIZZARD, nearly a life-long resident of Massillon, departed peacefully on May 19, 2012. Born on May 4, 1949 in Bonneville, MS, Robert was the eldest son of the late Robert C. Grizzard and Lula M. Miller. Throughout his life, Robert exhibited vast intellectual curiosity, spiritual depth, steadfast love of family, and a caring devotion to others, particularly children and senior citizens. After graduating from Washington High in Massillon, Robert earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Kent State University and completed most of coursework toward M.A., Sociology. He worked in human resources, customer service, insurance and medical billing in Ohio and Connecticut. Later, Robert received an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Human and Social Service Technology from Stark State College of Technology, and then received a Certificate in Gerontology. In addition, he earned a Bachelor Degree in Social Work from The University of Akron, became a Phi Theta Kappa Academic Honorary graduate; and obtained licenses both as a Practical Nurse and a Social Worker. Robert served as a charge nurse at Manor Care Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Canton, Valley View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Akron, and Ridgewood Place Medical Center in Akron; and as a State Tested Nursing Assistant at Altercare at Nobles Pond in Canton. Since 2009, he was employed at Greenleaf Family Center, where he worked in collaboration with the Summit County Juvenile Court's Diversion Program. Through his tireless efforts, more than 250 youth had initial charges dismissed and were counseled to lead more productive lives. For these achievements, Robert received a 2011 Community Service Award in Criminal Justice. Robert was a loyal member of Omega Psi Phi, a fraternity who affirms its motto: "friendship is essential to the soul." He was an avid reader, a dapper dresser, who enjoyed recreational swimming and frequently volunteered at the Haven of Rest Ministries in Akron, Ohio. Robert was affiliated with the Holiness Church of Christ Deliverance Center and was baptized at Trinity Gospel Temple, where he particularly enjoyed Sunday evening bible studies. He was sincerely appreciative of the redemptive Grace and Hope he found in Jesus Christ, often sharing one of his favorite scriptures, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." (Mark 9:23) Robert leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved daughter, Sonji Grizzard of Canton, Ohio, his dear sister, Mary Jeter; three brothers, Howard, Duane, and Dennis, Sr.; two grandsons, Yaseen and Ismael Abdullah; nephews, Brandon, Jeremy (Bevin) and Dennis, Jr. (DJ); his precious niece, Ranetta Long; and a host of relatives, friends, and admirers throughout the country. Robert was predeceased by both parents, Robert C. Grizzard in August 1988 and his loving mother, Lula Mae, in January 2012. All services will be held Friday, May 25, 2012, at St. James AME Zion Church, 209 2nd Street S.W., Massillon, Ohio. Calling hour will start at 9:30 AM to 10:30AM followed by a brief Omega Psi Phi memorial tribute, and Homegoing Celebration will start promptly at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Ronald C. Burks of Detroit, MI officiating. The eulogist will be Reverend Joseph Lawson, Holiness Church of Christ Deliverance Center. Flowers will be accepted at the church, other condolences may be sent to the attention of, A. Howard Grizzard, 658 Young Street, SE, Massillon, Ohio 44646, (330) 832-9602 or to www.paquelet.com. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory (330)833-3222