DARIN ROSS GRANTHUM

Posted on July 17, 2025

Darin Ross Granthum

Darin Ross Granthum, 54, of Perry passed away on July 13, 2025, after a life beautifully lived and deeply loved.

Born on August 11, 1970, in Perry, Darin was the beloved son of Patricia Glover of Perry, the late Olin Granthum Jr. (Debra) and the late Danny Glover Sr.

He is survived by: his devoted sisters, Heidi Granthum of Tallahassee and Jessica (Raymond) Rudd of Perry; his brother, Danny Jr. (Julie) Glover of Perry; his cherished niece, Madison Metcalf of Tallahassee; and nephews, Madden Metcalf of Panama City, Callen, Brady and Everette Glover, and Danny Ray Rudd, all of Perry.

He was the grandson of the late Jesse and Jeanette McLeod of Perry, and the late Olin Sr. and Virginia Granthum of Tallahassee.

Also surviving Darin is the Rev. Keith Barron, who shared a special bond with him as a loving stepfather and daily caregiver.

Keith affectionately called Darin his “associate evangelist” and ensured he was always looking sharp, well-groomed and cared for with unwavering devotion.

Darin especially loved attending services where Keith preached and found great joy listening to his mother sing in church – moments that brought him peace and pure happiness.

He was a bright light who lived life with uncontainable joy and wholehearted enthusiasm.

From age five, he attended Gretchen Everhart School in Tallahassee and graduated in 1993.

In addition to participating in the school chorus, Darin was a proud and accomplished Special Olympian, competing in a wide range of sports including track and field, swimming, bowling, softball, bocce, basketball and soccer.

After graduating, Darin attended the Taylor County SNAP program and enjoyed spending time with his friends.

Wherever his family was, Darin was there – always the biggest cheerleader, the loudest fan and the heart of every gathering. Whether it was football games, 4-H competitions, dance recitals or school plays, Darin was front and center with noisemakers in hand and joy in his heart.

He proudly stood as a groomsman in each of his siblings’ weddings and brought that same pride and excitement to every milestone his niece and nephews achieved.

He loved spending time outdoors, riding on the “chariot” at the hunting camp with his dad, sitting by the fire or casting a fishing pole – whether the fish were biting or not.

He also adored traveling with his family, whether to the mountains, the beach, a cruise or across the country in a motorhome.

Every journey was an adventure when shared with Darin.

He found joy in community, especially as a beloved guest at the annual “Night to Shine” prom and as an honorary member of the War and Reconstruction Krewe for Springtime Tallahassee. Riding on the parade float and dancing at the gala were among his favorite traditions.

An avid Florida State Seminoles fan, he loved attending football games, chanting proudly and honoring his hero, Coach Bobby Bowden.

His favorite holidays were Christmas, Easter and his birthday – celebrations he embraced with pure glee.

He also loved helping in his dad’s office, especially handing out paychecks to subcontractors on Fridays, often writing a few of his own just to spread kindness.

Darin never met a stranger and was known to offer a hug and a handwritten check to anyone he loved, which was just about everyone.

In a world filled with critics and cynics, Darin brought smiles, hugs and radiant joy. As one friend shared, “The world has lost one of its brightest lights – the giver of joy, one of the kindest souls. Darin showed us all how to live with joy, faith and endless generosity.”

We were the lucky ones to be loved by Darin.

The family received friends and acquaintances Tuesday, July 15, beginning at 2 p.m., at Perry First Assembly of God (828 West Julia Street), followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3 p.m. with Brother George Smith, Brother Raymond Rudd and Dr. Danny Glover officiating.

A private interment was held for the family only.

For those who wish to honor Darin’s enduring love for Special Olympics and support programs for thousands of athletes across Florida, contributions may be made in his memory at the following address: 1915 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont, Florida 34711.