Helen Crosby Grier, 87, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026, at her residence in Charlotte, NC.

With hearts filled with gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we celebrate the legacy of Mrs. Helen Crosby Grier, a devoted woman of faith, loving wife, cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Helen was born on May 3, 1939, in Chester, South Carolina, to the late James T. Crosby and Marie A. Crank Crosby. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernest C. Grier; her parents; and her dear sisters, Lillie Mae Clinkscale and Virginia L. Flowe.

Helen attended and graduated from the historic Second Ward High School, where she met the young man who would become the love of her life, Ernest C. Grier. Their friendship blossomed into a lifelong romance, and on August 15, 1959, Helen and Ernest were united in holy matrimony. From this loving union came four treasured children.

At an early age, Helen accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her faith would become the foundation upon which she built her life. Following her marriage to Ernest, Helen became a devoted member of Mt. Olive Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully served God and her congregation for many years. Her dedication to ministry was reflected in her active participation in numerous church organizations and leadership roles, including the Senior Citizens Ministry, Usher Board, Congregational Care Ministry, Finance Committee, Presbyterian Women Organization, Trustee Committee, and as a Sunday School Teacher and Vacation Bible School Teacher. She also joyfully shared her gift of song as a member of the Gospel Choir. Helen's servant heart, steadfast faith, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on all who worshipped alongside her.

To cherish her precious memories, Helen leaves one sister, Connie Simpson; four children, Antoinette D. Drakeford, Brenda M. Witherspoon, Teresa G. Jackson (Kenney), and Eric (Tamela) Grier; nine beloved grandchildren; five precious great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law; three sisters-in-law; three nephews; a host of cousins, dear friends, and many others whose lives were touched by her kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit.

Those who knew Helen will fondly remember her signature responses whenever someone asked how she was doing, “I’m better than nothing.” It was a simple phrase that reflected her resilience, gratitude, and ability to find joy regardless of life’s circumstances. Family and friends will forever cherish the way she affectionately ended conversations with her familiar farewell, “I’ll holla.” These treasured expressions, spoken with love and sincerity became part of her unique spirit and will continue to echo in the hearts of those who love her.