Grady Church

James Grady Church, 92, of Kingsport, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday evening, October 3, 2026, in Kingsport.

Grady was born in Kingsport on April 24, 1934, the son of the late Carl and Tommie M. Church of the Lone Star community. He graduated from Sullivan High School and attended East Tennessee State University, where he met the love of his life, Nelda Benton. The two were married on December 7, 1953, in Washington County, Tennessee, and shared 67 years of marriage together.

Music was one of Grady’s great loves throughout his life. A talented musician, he played with the Grady Church Orchestra for 20 years and had the opportunity to appear with such notable performers as Boots Randolph and Red Foley. His love of music remained an important part of his life through the years.

Grady also treasured the friendships he made throughout his life and was a good friend of Bill Wilson.

In addition to his parents, Carl and Tommie M. Church, Grady was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nelda Benton Church, and his sister, Barbara Harrison.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Laura Tate and husband, Tony; his son, Dr. Gregory Church; his niece, Deborah Wagner; and the family and friends who knew and loved him.

A graveside service celebrating Grady’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at East Lawn Memorial Park, with Larry Muncey officiating.