Grady R. Lamb

Mackinaw – Grady R. Lamb, 78, of Mackinaw, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his home on September 18, 2025.

Grady (Grid) was born at home on May 18, 1947, in Sedgwick, Arkansas, to Harry and Eula Lamb. One of eight children, he grew up surrounded by family and strong values that shaped the man he became.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, achieving the rank of SP/5. After his military service, he worked as a millwright at Caterpillar in Morton for 37 years, retiring in 2003. He was a longtime member of UAW Local 974. After retirement he worked part-time at Cullman Regional in Cullman, Alabama and at our local IGA in Mackinaw.

Grady is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Debra (Cowley) Lamb; his son, John; and his stepsons, David Gundy (Kaily) and Derek Gundy (Lana), and his four sisters Nina, Pat, LaVerne and Eula and two brothers Thomas and George. He also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren, Jacob Fewkes, Cameron Gundy, Lauren Gundy, Dylan Gundy, and Cecilia Gundy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Murl.

Grady was known for his quick wit—always ready with a joke, good or bad, and his generous spirit. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those in need and is fondly remembered for choosing to be a stepfather out of love, not obligation. He would want us to express his sincere thankfulness for his loving neighbors, his generous friends, his supportive family and all those at the Mackinaw church that have provided prayer and love over these years. His journey has been blessed by so many angels.

A true handyman and tinkerer, Grady enjoyed time in the garage, enjoyed fond memories of riding his Gold Wing motorcycle and always ready for a challenge. He was a constant presence in his children’s lives, always eager to help with home projects, being a mentor to them and years ago served as daily caregiver for his grandchildren—memories they all treasure today.

His wisdom was often shared in simple, but lasting phrases, like:

“Knowing is not enough”, “Honey, I’m home!” and “Show love in your family.”

Grady loved serving at Mackinaw Methodist Church, where he found joy laughing with the youth and helping to maintain the church grounds. His life centered around caring for others, which brought him great purpose and peace. He always provided a safe haven for his family.

In keeping with Grady’s wishes, cremation will be handled by Davis-Oswald Funeral Home. A graveside service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 11:00 am at Mackinaw Township Cemetery (Webster St., Mackinaw, IL). All are welcome to attend. A luncheon will follow at Mackinaw United Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mackinaw Methodist Church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Compassus Hospice.

To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.davisoswaldfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Grady R. Lamb, please visit our floral store.