Joe Blaine Grass, 85, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away February 16, 2026 in his home.

He was born on November 16, 1940 in Teays County, West Virginia, the son of Alvis Walter Grass and Evelyn Maxine Bird Langler.

After graduating from St. Alban’s High School, Joe served in the United States Army from 1961-1966. 

Throughout his life, he was an avid learner. He graduated from the Junior College of Broward County in 1966 (Associate of Arts), Florida Atlantic University in 1967 (Bachelor of Arts), Marshall University in 1970 (Master of Arts), and Kansas University in 1975 (Bachelor of Science in Education).

Joe married the love of his life, Mary Ann Wood on March 15, 1972. They were happily married for 51 years until her death in 2023.

Joe worked for over 28 years as a Chief Child Support Specialist in the Department of Social Services for the State of South Carolina.

In the late 90’s, he became a Master Gardener. He loved to be outside, enjoyed basking in the sun, growing plants and working in his green house.  Joe loved animals and leaves behind his two faithful canine companions, Hope and Riley.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann, and his brothers, Jerry Wayne Grass and John Lane Grass.  He is survived by his children, Tim Grass and Brooke Grass-Oves (Scott) both of Lexington, South Carolina and granddaughters, Veda Louise Oves and Quinn Marie Oves. He absolutely adored Veda and Quinn. They were his world.

A celebration of Joe’s journey will be held at Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington on March 7, 2026 at 11:00am, followed by a visitation. For those unable to attend, the service will be streaming live via the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/f26039426749641

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Pawmetto Lifeline, Harvest Hope Food Bank, or the ACLU.  Your contribution will help those in need.