Obituary of Myron E. Grist

Myron E. Grist Jr., passed away on October 28, 2024, in Bath, NY.  He was born on February 9, 1945, in the town of Campbell, NY, the son of the late Myron E. Sr. and Isabelle (Swartwood) Grist. Myron was a man who lived his life with a quiet dignity and a steadfast commitment to those he loved.

A proud graduate of Campbell-Savona High School, Myron's sense of duty led him to serve his country as an airplane mechanic in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. His work ethic and skills were further exemplified in his long-standing career at Mercury Aircraft in Hammondsport, NY, where he dedicated 36 years on the paintline and mostly as a Truck Driver, from 1971 until his retirement in 2007. Myron also contributed to his community through his work with the Steuben County Highway Department.

The true cornerstone of his life was his family. Myron married his beloved wife, Shirley, on September 14, 1968. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Michelle (Rick) Salisbury, Brenda Montgomery, and the late Jacqueline Grist. His role as a grandfather and great-grandfather was one he cherished deeply, sharing his wisdom and joy with his grandchildren, David Sheehan (Meackon Emrick), Tyler Sheehan, Kayla Montgomery, and Paige (Andrew) Bruner, as well as his great-grandchildren, Shelby Montgomery and Layla Sheehan.

Myron's siblings, William Grist, Ralph Grist, Thelma Grist Coolidge, Eunice Taylor, and Waneta Payne, predeceased him, leaving behind a legacy of family bonds that he continued to honor throughout his life. His sister-in-law, Sharon Blankenship, along with many nieces and nephews, will remember Myron for the love and guidance he provided.

Myron's passions were as clear as they were simple. He loved to fly, embracing the freedom of the skies with the same vigor he applied to life. Camping and traveling with Shirley and their family provided him with cherished memories and stories that he would recount with a sparkle in his eye. In every aspect of life, Myron was a wonderful father who consistently put others before himself.

As we say goodbye to Myron E. Grist Jr., we celebrate a life well-lived, a life that was full of purpose and love. His story is one of a journey completed with honor, a life that truly mattered, and a spirit that will forever soar high above the skies he so loved to explore. Myron's life reminds us all to cherish the simple moments, to live with kindness, and to always put family first. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to Fagan's Funeral Home in Bath on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 11:00-12:00 pm.  A Military Graveside service will follow at Nondaga Cemetery in Bath at 12:30 PM.