Leonie Grant

"Beauty for ashes" - Isaiah 61:3

In 1972, Leonie’s parents immigrated to the United States and settled in Hartford, Connecticut.  While her parents moved so their children could experience opportunities not readily available in Jamaica, they insisted on making yearly trips back home to stay connected with their family.  Her parents also stressed the importance of working hard, maintaining a job, and obtaining a higher education.  Leonie was the first in her immediate family to receive a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree.  She is a member of Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society and Delta Mu Delta International Business Society.

Leonie is the proud mother of Tyler and Taylor and the current President of S.R.T. Inc. This non-profit organization teaches youth and young adults the importance of community service and economic independence.  She would often take Tyler with her to volunteer at iMPACT events, to assist with the Kids Pantry in Metro Atlanta, and to prepare meals for Covenant House.  Beyond her involvement in these community activities, Leonie is the co-Leader of the Daisy & Brownie Girl Scout Troop at Lindsay Street Baptist Church.  She enjoys having Taylor in an environment where she can learn new things and interact with other girls.

Leonie was a member of a mega church in Atlanta for 13 years and transitioned to Latter Rain Christian Church with her children in 2010. She was licensed as a Minister in 2013 and ordained as an Elder in 2016. In June 2018, she was elevated to Associate Pastor. She continues to serve as Church Administrator and works under the tutelage of her spiritual father, Apostle Dale Osburn Sr.

In 2014, Leonie and Tyler discussed starting a foundation to assist single mothers with children with special needs in Paulding County.  The blueprint for the foundation was laid out, and they were preparing to set their plan in motion; however, the purpose for the foundation shifted when Tyler tragically passed away on July 29, 2016. The foundation now has a new purpose: to give back to the community in Tyler's memory, so that his passion for life and love for Christ will continue to live on in others.  One can only hope to leave a legacy as great as Tyler’s.  

Leonie worked diligently to get warning signs placed on the Weeks Footbridge after Tyler's passing. Despite much opposition, she continued to advocate for saving lives. In December 2016, with the help of Mayor E. Denise Simmons, two warning signs were placed on the footbridge. There is triumph after tragedy, and she received beauty for ashes.