A Farewell to Wayne

Andover paid its respects to a local legend today. Wayne Grant would have been delighted. The sun was shining, and it was exactly the kind of day he would have ordered for any of the parades and events he helped to organize over the years.

The large American flag that Wayne organized for the 4th of July parade was hung over Main Street by local fire companies. Andover Central School children lined the school yard with a community flag of their own to honor Wayne Grant's many contributions over the years. The perfect amount of flags lined Main Street: all 50 states hung by the Village Crew and his children and grandchildren and a few dozen extra American flags brought by his friends and neighbors.

Clear Skies and American Flags for Wayne

Following Wayne's service, which was the exact length of a good chat on his front porch, Wayne was escorted in style by the Andover Volunteer Fire Department and the Freedom Riders down Route 21, past the school and down Main Street. He was followed by his truck full of the biggest pains in his patoot (and most treasured): his grandkids. His wife of 52 years Judi, children, family and friends followed with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA" playing. He was carried on to his final resting place at Valley Brook Cemetery where he spent so many years caring for the grounds of those who went before him.

There have been so many memories and tributes shared both online and around town these past few days it would be impossible to share them all. The theme of so many has been Wayne's tireless commitment to his community and his family. Wayne Grant has inspired so many to give more of ourselves to our community and the neighbors that we share our lives and space with. He did this by first leading by example, and he followed up with a subtle nudge in the right direction.

Andover won't be the same without Wayne. He won't be stopping by the shop tomorrow to tell me he enjoyed reading this and, most likely, to correct me on some history I left out. He always had a kind word of encouragement for me and so many others. However, I'm certain Wayne Grant's legacy will shine on through his children, grandchildren and everyone that he inspired over the years to do good in their community.

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