Joseph C. Grayson

Joseph Cole Grayson, beloved husband, grandfather, veteran, and civic leader, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on October 8, 1932, in Nicholasville, Kentucky, Joe was the son of James Roy Grayson and Ida Ellen Grayson.

In 1934, at the age of two, Joe and his family moved to Miami, Florida, where he would grow up and build a life rooted in service, family, and community. He graduated from Miami Edison Senior High School in 1952. Though he was awarded a football scholarship to the University of Miami, Joe instead chose to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. From 1952 to 1956, he served honorably as an aircraft engine mechanic.

Following his military service, Joe graduated from the Emory-Riddle Aeronautical Institute in 1958 and began a long and dedicated career with Delta Airlines as an aircraft mechanic. He worked with Delta in Miami for 30 years, retiring in 1988.

Joe married Joyce Callaway Grayson on September 14, 1963. They shared 26 years of marriage until her passing in 1989. In 1998, Joe married Elizabeth Tillman Layson, with whom he shared the remaining years of his life.

Joe was a devoted brother to Dorthy Ellen Ross and was preceded in death by his brothers James Roy Grayson Jr. and Jack Bair Grayson. He was a cherished uncle to Thomas James Ross II, Stewart Grayson Ross, Joy Ellen Wagner, James Roy Grayson III, Dorothy Ann Love, Cathy Jo Smolinsky, Margaret Grayson Mitchell, and Janis Grayson Hunley.

Through his marriage to Elizabeth, Joe also became a beloved stepfather to H. Franklin Layson and his wife, Patricia Wilson Layson. He took great pride in his role as a grandfather to Brooks Michael Layson, Patrick Cole Layson, and Eliot Len Layson.

Joe’s life was marked not only by professional and family dedication, but also by his passionate civic and charitable involvement. A proud Mason for 70 years with Village Lodge 315 in Miami Shores, Florida, Joe also devoted more than six decades of service to the Shrine. His contributions to the Shriners included serving on the Board of Governors of the Shriners Hospital in Tampa, as Potentate of the Mahi Shrine Center in 1990, and as President of both the Florida and Southeastern Shrine Associations. His leadership extended nationally as International Commander of the International Association Legions of Honor. He was also a proud member of the Scottish Rite, the Order of DeMolay, and The Royal Order of Jesters. For the past five years, Joe has volunteered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children in need.

Joe Grayson’s life was one of steadfast service—to his country, his community, and most importantly, to his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

A graveside service and interment will take place on Monday, September 22nd, 2025 at 10am at Southern Memorial Park in North Miami, Florida.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com