Ebon Ralph Grubb Jr., a longtime member of St. Stephen Church in Chattanooga, passed away on Oct. 5 at the age of 94.
Mr. Grubb was the first male baby born at St. Mary’s Hospital in Knoxville on May 10, 1930. He graduated from Knoxville Central High School in 1948. Upon graduation, he attended the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
When the Korean War broke out, he proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1954. While serving near the border of Canada, he met the love of his life, Cecile Hachez Grubb, and they were married for 71 years until her death on July 21, 2024. He was honorably discharged from Presque Isle Air Force Base, Maine, in 1954.
After his military service, he returned to Knoxville, resumed his studies at the University of Tennessee, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1956. He continued his studies and received a master’s degree in science in 1958.
In 1958, he began a long career with U.S. Gypsum Co. He was a sales representative in both Greenville, S.C., and Knoxville. In 1974, he was promoted to branch manager for L&W Supply, the wholesale distribution arm of USG. As branch manager, he opened a new branch in Chattanooga. After a long and successful career, he retired in 1997. His legacy with L&W Supply continues, as both his son (Karl) and grandson (Zack) followed him into careers with L&W Supply.
Mr. Grubb was a parishioner of St. Stephen Church for 50 years, and he served as an usher there for 20 years. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a tireless and selfless volunteer for nearly 20 years delivering food and emotional support for Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga. His hobbies and interests included University of Tennessee sports and gardening. He continued working in his yard until he turned 90.
In his last years, he was the caretaker for his beloved wife, Cecile, who had Alzheimer’s disease. Despite numerous heart issues, Mr. Grubb willed himself to remain strong, and he took care of Cecile until she passed away. With another selfless job completed, he succumbed to a broken heart on Oct. 5.
He was a devoted husband, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He leaves behind his daughters, Deborah Ledford and Kimberly Wood (Dennis); and a son, Karl Grubb. He was blessed with seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held on Nov. 4 in Chattanooga National Cemetery that was officiated by Father Manuel Peréz, pastor of St. Stephen Parish.
