Holly Gruntman

Holly Lee Gruntman, age 51, a resident of Bradenton, Florida, passed away Tuesday March 31, 2026. Born in Baltimore, Maryland she moved to Florida as a child. She kept her Maryland roots through her family and found the sunshine of life in Florida. She was a graduate of Mars Hill University in North Carolina. She worked as an occupational therapist working with children and young adults with autism. In addition, she provided respite care for a great many families. These families became an extension of her own. Holly volunteered at Mote Marine working with rescued wildlife. She was preceded in death by her loving parents Ann and Al, and cousin Brian. She is survived by her Uncles David “Davy” and Richard; Aunts Nancy and Faith; and cousins Chris, Connie, Diane and Harvey. Her found family of friends are exceeded in number only by the stars in the sky. Holly enjoyed science, travel, water activities, animals, sports, reading books, and the Baltimore Orioles. Described by her friends as the kindest and most gentle soul; she will be dearly missed. A celebration of life, followed by a light meal, will be held at 12:30pm Saturday April 18th at Lemon Bay Park Shelter at 570 Bay Park Blvd, Englewood, FL 34223. Followed by a private burial at sea. Contributions can be made to https://autisticadvocacy.org

"There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.”