Walter Bruce Grandey, of Louisville departed this world on September 19, 2026, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer at the age of 97. Born on April 20, 1929, in the town of McMinnville, Tennessee, Walter's life was a testament to dedication, love, and unwavering faith.

A 1959 graduate of Tennessee Technological University, Walter pursued a career as a Civil Engineer, contributing to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Y-12 National Security Complex, and the Tennessee Valley Authority, from which he retired in 1984.

Growing up on a dairy farm, Walter found joy in nurturing the land as a Herford then Angus cow farmer after retirement. He dabbled in architecture and construction, where he rendered the blueprint plans for 2 houses he built and lived in. Walter had a place in his heart for Hillbrook Christian Camp in the Karns community where he designed and built the cabins and other structures, serving on their board of directors.

Walter's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was an active member of Church of Christ congregations, including Karns, Maryville, East Side, and West End, where he served as a song leader. His voice, full of warmth and devotion, uplifted many and was a testament to his deep spiritual convictions.

Walter is preceded in death by parents Ernest Edwin and Mary Ethel Golden and his siblings Mary Ruth, Ernest Edwin Jr, Phillip Ashbel, Laurel Peninnah, Ralph Quinten and Evelyn Joy. Survivors include Wife of 74 years, Doris Ann Jones, daughter Celia Belitz and husband, Larry. Grandchildren: Amy Seger and husband, Paul, Ben Belitz and wife, Jessica and Beth Jennings and husband, Allen. Great-Grandchildren include Vera, Delia and Harlan Seger, Rory Belitz and Allie Jennings, along with other nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Family and friends will assemble at Holston College Cemetery in Louisville, TN, on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 3:00pm for a graveside service and interment.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations in Walter's name to Hillbrook Christian Camp in Knoxville, https://hillbrookcamp.com/donate 

Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, 865-983-100, or www.smithfuneralandcremation.com.