Lucy Vernell (Thornton) Grantham

Lucy Vernell Grantham, 92, of Goldsboro passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at her home in Goldsboro.

Due to COVID-19, a graveside service will be held for family and very close friends Monday, January 18, 2021 at 2 p.m. at Falling Creek United Methodist Church in Grantham.

Vernell was born February 11, 1928 to the late Ernie Talton Thornton and Lou Britt Thornton. Vernell grew up in Grantham as part of a farming family. She learned the meaning of family and hard work.

After finishing high school, she worked with the FBI for two years in Washington D.C. She returned home to Grantham to marry her true love, James Edgar Grantham and they remained married until his death in 1975. They had two children, to whom she devoted her life. She attended First Baptist Church in Goldsboro while her health allowed.

She worked with several financial institutions throughout her career, including BB&T, American Savings and Loan and Heritage Bank, which is now Southern Bank. Vernell loved to work, so after retiring she volunteered at Wayne Memorial Hospital and Cherry Hospital. 

Twenty years ago, she met a special man, Roger Casey Sr., who became her friend and companion for the remainder of her life. They loved to dance and every Saturday night at 6 p.m. you could find them at her home watching the Lawrence Welk Show and dancing in the kitchen. 

She is survived by one son, Randy Grantham and wife, Carolyn Calafiore of Grantham; one daughter, Sandra Roberts and husband, Lou of Winterville; one brother, Ernie Thornton and wife, Tinkum of LaGrange; two grandchildren, Claire Grantham, Brandy Grantham Jinnette and husband, Brian and three great-grandchildren, Avery, Ryan and Jacob. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Edgar Grantham; two sisters, Elma Thornton Smith and Alma Thornton; three brothers, Floyd, John and Earl Thornton. 

The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Marilyn Yalch and Phyllis Musgrave, who helped care for her. Also, to Bill and Anna White, her next door neighbors, who took care of her yard for many years as well as assisting her when needed. 

Last but certainly not least, a special thanks goes to Meghann Walker. She assisted the family in caring for Vernell. In fact, when Vernell would get mad at Sandra........ which happened frequently, Vernell would say "Where is that other girl that takes care of me? " So Meghann, thank you for taking care of "Miss Lucy". 

Services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.

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