Cicero Alexander Grier

Mr. Cicero Alexander  Grier  87 of Charlotte, NC. passed away Wednesday May 25, 2017 at his residence. Funeral service will be held Saturday May 27, 2017 at First Baptist Church West 1801 Oaklawn Ave. Charlotte, NC 28216. Visitation will began at 11:00 am and the service will follow at 12:00 noon. Interment will be at Forest Lawn Cemetery West.

Cicero Alexander Grier, born and raised in Charlotte, was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He was admired by many as one of the first successful African-American businessmen of Charlotte. He attended Plato Price High School and after graduation entered the military, being honorably discharged after 9 years of meritorious service. Upon returning to civilian life, he attended Carver College and graduated with a Business Degree.

In 1966, Mr. Grier opened the first of a chain of convenience stores and shopping centers known throughout the community as Bitsy Bounty Food Mart. Cicero was passionate about business and shared his knowledge and wisdom with new, young and seasoned entrepreneurs seeking advice. Cicero genuinely wanted to see all, especially African Americans, prosper and invest wisely. He was also passionate about his family, jazz and boxing, and relished a good game of scrabble with a “worthy opponent.”

Cicero is survived by his loving wife Mayme, with whom he reconnected and married 17 years ago. He was preceded in death by Jeanette M. Grier, with whom he enjoyed a 40 year marriage, as they reared their three children. Left to mourn his passing, Cicero leaves his wife: Mayme Grier; children: Valaree Grier (Antonial Jackson), Tami Grier, Gregory Grier, Terrence Ardis and Carole Ardis; grandchildren: Alexander Grier-with whom he shared a special bond, Terre Holmes, Brian Hickman, Kristin Ardis, Sydnie Ardis, Kendall Ardis, and Olivia Ardis; nephews: Richard Hopkins (Madge) and Charlie Hopkins; confidants: Charles Blackwell, Joe Adu, Michael Bridges and Carmene Kyle, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Having accepted Christ at an early age, Cicero maintained his spiritual connection over the years through memberships at Mt. Olive Presbyterian Church, Clinton Chapel AME Zion and finally, at First Baptist Church West.

Cicero was a smart man, full of wisdom, discipline, character and integrity; he exhibited these principles throughout his life, which was often a model for those around him. Cicero Alexander Grier created an admirable legacy. His presence will be truly missed.