God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, called our beloved sister, Mary Ruth Grant, from labor to reward on Thursday, June 25, 2026.

Mary was born in Georgetown, South Carolina, on April 2, 1951, to the late Arthur and Ethel Grant. She was raised in a Christian home alongside her seven siblings—a home filled with love and laughter, where someone was always doing something that would bring smiles when remembered. Mary's parents taught her the value of loving God, working hard, and being honest.

Mary attended Sampit Elementary School and later Howard High School, where she graduated in 1969. Upon graduating from high school, she relocated to New Haven, Connecticut, and lived with her Aunt Lena Sumpter, affectionately known as "Sister," who helped her obtain a job at the Oneita Sewing Plant. She later became employed by American Linen Company on Ashmun Street in New Haven. Mary was such a dedicated employee that when the company relocated, she was given the opportunity to relocate with it and assume a new position. She retired from American Linen in 2013. While working there, she also held a part-time position at Dunkin' Donuts, from which she retired in 2023.

Mary had a genuine heart and was loved by all. She met a young man named John Ballard, with whom she fell in love and became engaged. They remained devoted to one another until his passing in 2011.

In 1978, Mary surrendered her life to Christ and accepted Him as her personal Savior under the leadership of the Reverend Alton Barnes of Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ. Reverend Alton Barnes and his wife, Missionary Dorothy Barnes, took Mary under their wings, praying with her and teaching her about the love of God and faithful service in the church.

In her service to God, Mary faithfully held many positions at Holy Trinity C.O.G.I.C. She served as President of the Usher Board, Sunday School teacher, secretary, treasurer, and a member of the Women's Department. She also volunteered for the Mission Department's annual Christmas in August outreach, where school supplies, clothing, shoes, household items, and food were distributed free of charge to members of the community.

When COVID-19 struck in 2020, forcing churches to conduct services by telephone and over the internet, Mary became a powerful prayer warrior who loved reading the Scriptures. She also cared deeply about the needs of her fellow worshippers. Recognizing those needs, she approached Missionary Dorothy Barnes and Reverend Alton Barnes, leading to the establishment of the "We Care" Ministry, which provided food, clothing, support during times of bereavement, and assistance with many other needs for Holy Trinity members.

Mary worked faithfully until her day was done. The Lord called Mary and said it was time to come Home. We loved her and wanted her to remain with us, but God saw her struggle and called her to rest. There is now no more pain, no more doctors, no more scans, and no more treatments. Mary answered the call of the Greatest Physician of all.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory three brothers, Matthew Grant (Mary) of Georgetown, South Carolina; Elder Leroy Grant, Sr. (Aurora) of Hamden, Connecticut; and Arthur Grant (Annette) of Georgetown, South Carolina; three sisters, Janie Grant, Annette Brown, and Marie Canteen, all of Georgetown, South Carolina; one sister-in-law, Larene Holmes of Georgetown, South Carolina; a friend whom Mary considered a brother, Nate Knight of Georgetown, South Carolina; one uncle, George Patrick of New York; three aunts, Catherine Keels, Lena Sumpter, and Minnie Patrick of South Carolina; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, the Holy Trinity Church family, and friends.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Ethel Grant; her brother, Glenny Grant, Sr.; and her fiancé, John Ballard.

Mary will forever remain in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ, 139 Winthrop Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut.

Funeral services and burial will be held in Georgetown, South Carolina.