Olin Ross Granthum, Jr.

Olin Ross Granthum Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024. Born on April 2, 1947, in Tampa, Florida, Olin’s early years were spent in Perry, Florida, where he graduated from Taylor County High School in 1965. His pursuit of higher education took him to Flint, Michigan, where he studied Mechanical Engineering. However, his path took a significant turn when he enlisted in the U.S. Army in September 1966. During the Vietnam War, Olin served with bravery and distinction, earning numerous accolades including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, and other commendations for his service. After his honorable discharge in September 1969, he returned to his roots in Florida, embarking on a career as a Master Welder. His expertise led him to notable projects, including welding for a nuclear reactor plant and the Alaskan Pipeline, solidifying his reputation in the field. In 1986, Olin’s entrepreneurial spirit drove him to establish Olin Construction, Inc., in Tallahassee, Florida. His impact on the local community was profound, as he built numerous custom and speculative homes throughout the area. His contributions were particularly recognized through his involvement with the Tallahassee Builder’s Association, where he received multiple accolades, and his participation in the annual Parade of Homes. Notable projects included homes in prestigious subdivisions such as Hartsfield Plantation and Piney Z. Olin's vibrant personality and commitment extended beyond his professional life. He was a dedicated member of the Springtime Tallahassee, serving for many years on the War & Reconstruction Krewe. His love for float building and the camaraderie it fostered was a testament to his passion for community involvement. An avid outdoorsman, Olin’s love for hunting and fishing spanned continents, but his most treasured experiences were the Thanksgiving hunts in Tennessee and deer hunting trips at the family “camp.” Olin was known for his adventurous spirit and enjoyed taking others along on his airboat for thrilling nights of gigging frogs and hunting alligators. These outings were not just about the hunt but were cherished gatherings where he shared his passion for the outdoors, teaching friends and family alike about the thrill of the hunt and the art of living off the land. His hospitable nature was well-known; he delighted in preparing and sharing meals from his outdoor adventures, including frog legs, alligator tail, venison, and fish. His legendary cookouts at his Lake Jackson home were a highlight for family and friends alike. Olin was especially devoted to his son, Darin, who has special needs. He made it a point to include Darin in every adventure, ensuring he was always a part of his outdoor experiences and family activities. Olin’s care and dedication to Darin were evident in every aspect of his life, as he created opportunities for his son to experience the joy and excitement of their shared passions. Whether it was hunting, pulling Darin on the chariot behind the four-wheeler, fishing, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Olin’s commitment to making Darin feel included and cherished was a testament to his loving nature and deep sense of family. A passionate supporter of Florida State University football, Olin's enthusiasm for FSU football games was matched only by his friendly rivalry with family members who cheered for the Florida Gators. This rivalry was a source of much fun and laughter, highlighted by the special “loser’s trophy,” which was welded by Olin and a cherished family “Christmas” tradition. In his later years, Olin embraced a new passion for camping, traveling across the country in his RV with his wife Debra. His faith was central to his life, and he was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church. Olin found great joy in his Sunday school class and his men’s group, “Iron Workers,” and he relished the opportunities to travel with church friends, including a memorable trip to Iceland. Above all, Olin’s greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband to Debra Bishop Granthum, a loving father to Darin Granthum and Heidi Granthum; a proud “Papa Olin” to his grandchildren. He took immense pride in supporting them at their various school and extra-curricular events and was known for his creative projects for them, from building treehouses, chicken coops, tree stands, and go-carts to crafting a unique kayak-pontoon boat with his grandson. Olin is preceded in death by his parents Olin Sr and Virginia Granthum, his sister, Diana Granthum Brady Davis. Olin is survived by his wife, Debra Bishop Granthum, of Tallahassee; his children, Darin Granthum of Perry and Heidi Granthum of Tallahassee; Dr. Desmond (Lindsey) Bishop of Fernandina Beach, Zane (Mischa) Bishop of Monticello, Kaz (Eric) Shiendling of Atlantic Beach; his grandchildren, Madison, Madden, Hayes, Amyrs, Kye, Ford, Liam, Lucas, and Wade; his siblings, Gloria (Dr. Robert) Bell of Cookeville, TN, Gail (Homer) Tedder of Tallahassee, Chris (Rev. George) Smith of Eclectic, AL, and Tommy (Terrie) Granthum of Perry; and a host of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loyal 4-legged companion, Grit. The family will receive friends at the visitation on Monday, August 26, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bevis Funeral Home, 200 John Knox Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32303. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Fellowship Baptist Church, 3705 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303. The interment with military honors will be held at 2:00 PM at the National Cemetery, 5015 Apalachee Pkwy, Tallahassee, FL 32303. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in honor of Olin, be made to the Building Fund at Fellowship Baptist Church. Donations can be mailed to 3705 N Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303, or made online at https://fellowshipbaptist.org/. Olin Ross Granthum Jr. will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of service, passion for life, and dedication to family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Susie Mozolic of Bevis Funeral Home is assisting the Granthum family with their arrangements. (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193)

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Olin Ross Granthum, Jr.

April 2, 1947 - August 19, 2024