robert grass, sr.

1940-2004

Life Story

A Life of Trial, Faith, and Evangelistic Purpose

Early Life and Family Background

Robert Grass, Sr. was born on March 13, 1940, to Marshall Grass (1901–1965) and Mary Eliza Walker (1913–1999). Raised in Newton County, Mississippi, Robert grew up in a close-knit rural community deeply rooted in Christian values and strong family ties. His upbringing was shaped by the rhythms of church life, family gatherings, and the steadfast teachings of his parents, who instilled in him a sense of purpose and spiritual devotion that would later define his adult life.

In early adulthood, Robert married Sallie Mae Thames (1944–2008), forming a union built on love, perseverance, and shared faith. Together, they welcomed the following children, each of whom became central pillars in their family’s story:

Robert Grass, Jr. (1961–2015)
Lakeesha Lashona Grass (1977–2024)
Angela A. Grass
Gail Grass
Rhonda Grass

Their home was filled with the laughter and complexities of raising a growing family, bound together through both challenges and blessings.

A Life Marked by Hardship and Redemption

Although Robert lived a life dedicated to faith, he also endured profound personal struggles. In April 1981, at the age of forty, he faced one of the most difficult moments of his life when he attempted suicide. Reports from the Newton County Sheriff’s Department indicated that he suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the left side of his chest. A passerby discovered him in his car on Mississippi Highway 15, just south of Newton, and immediately summoned help.

Robert was rushed first to Newton Hospital by the Newton Ambulance Service and later transferred to Riley Hospital in Meridian, where he was listed in stable condition. This traumatic episode was a turning point—one that highlighted the internal battles he had carried silently.

Rather than allowing this moment to define him, Robert used it as an opportunity for spiritual renewal. Leaning deeply into his faith, he transformed his pain into purpose, embracing a calling that would shape his remaining years.

Evangelistic Ministry and Lasting Impact

In the years that followed, Robert became known as an evangelist, dedicating his voice and his life to the preaching of the gospel. His sermons—often filled with conviction, tenderness, and raw honesty—reflected his own journey through suffering and redemption. Many in the community recall his willingness to encourage others, regardless of their circumstances, and his ability to speak directly to the hearts of those facing their own battles.

Robert’s ministry left a lasting mark on the spiritual landscape of Newton County. His unwavering belief in God’s grace and mercy remained the guiding force of his life, and those who knew him remember both his kindness and his passionate devotion to sharing the Word.

Passing and Legacy

On August 13, 2004, Robert Grass, Sr. passed away, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, faith, and a deeply personal testimony of resilience. His headstone bears the heartfelt inscription that he was an “Evangelist” and that he is “forever with the Lord,” a testament to the life he lived and the faith that anchored him through every storm.

He was laid to rest in the sacred grounds of the Altare M.B. Church graveyard, among generations of loved ones who shaped the Altare community. His memory continues to live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, extended family, and the many individuals whose lives were touched by his ministry and his unwavering belief in God’s transformative power.

Sidebar: Robert Grass, Sr. — At a Glance

Personal Information

Born: March 13, 1940
Parents: Marshall Grass & Mary Eliza Walker
Died: August 13, 2004
Age at Death: 64

Marriage & Children

Spouse: Sallie Mae Thames (1944–2008)
Children:

Robert Grass, Jr. (1961–2015)
Lakeesha Lashona Grass (1977–2024)
Angela A. Grass
Gail Grass
Rhonda Grass

Key Life Events

Survived a suicide attempt in 1981
Underwent significant spiritual transformation
Became an evangelist dedicated to ministry and redemption

Legacy

Remembered as a compassionate, faith-driven evangelist
Known for heartfelt sermons and ministering to the wounded in spirit
Honored by family and community for resilience and devotion

Final Resting Place

Altare M.B. Church Graveyard, Newton County, Mississippi

Resting Place

Altare Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard

Photos/Albums

Sources

U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
The Newton Record, Newton Man Parks Car, Shoots Self, Wed, Apr 08, 1981 ·Page 1
U.S., Index to Public Records, 1994-2019
Scott County Times, Ms. Mary E. Walker Obituary, Wed, Sep 01, 1999 ·Page 6
U.S., Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 1
U.S., Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014

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