Grier Martin Christenbury

Grier Martin Christenbury, age 9 of Charlotte, NC seized each and every day. He lived his life to the fullest, all while bravely battling Neuroblastoma for more than 6 ½ years. He passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 at home, surrounded by his loving family. Grier was born in Charlotte on June 8, 2004. For preschool, Grier enjoyed every moment at First Presbyterian Weekday School where his teachers nurtured him and cultivated his love of learning. Grier was a third grader at Selwyn Elementary School—he relished his three years as a Selwyn Eagle. Grier absolutely loved school, adored his teachers and cherished his many friends. Grier also loved sports. He played Charlotte Junior Soccer, Dilworth Little League and was beginning to tackle Barefoot Futsal. If he wasn't actually playing sports, on the field or in his front yard, he could be found watching his favorite teams either on TV or live and in person. He was a loyal fan, especially to his Clemson Tigers and the color orange. His wardrobe was chocked full of orange, fabulous jerseys and an impeccable shoe collection. Grier also enjoyed the beach, fishing, playing golf and cheering on his brother and sister as they played baseball and soccer. Grier was a master Lego builder; his greatest accomplishment was tackling and conquering the Star Wars Death Star. People were drawn to Grier for an abundance of reasons--his infectious smile, his signature dimples, his fun-loving personality and his generous spirit. He was a good and faithful friend, regardless of one's age. Throughout his many years of treatment, Grier kept a positive attitude and made a lasting impact on everyone and everything he came into contact with. Grier also made the most out of his travels to New York and Philadelphia always making time for fun during numerous medical trips. The family would like to thank the staff at Levine Children's Hospital (LCH 11) and Levine's Pediatric Hematology Oncology Center for the care they gave Grier over the last 6 years 9 months, especially Dr. McMahon and Kristen. They also recognize the wonderful care provided by Dr. Crimaldi, Jodi and the Trilogy Team at Southeast Radiation Oncology (SERO) and the commitment and care given by his doctors and nurses at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. A special thanks to their Covenant Presbyterian Church family for the love and support during this journey. Grier is survived by his parents Amy & Jeff Christenbury; his brother and sister, Hayes and Grace Christenbury; maternal grandmother, Janet Vitolo; paternal grandfather, Joe Christenbury; aunt, Julie Christenbury Smith and her husband, Daryl; two cousins, all of Charlotte; great- aunts and great- uncles; his Godparents, Ross and Bill Caldwell; and a slew of friends across the globe. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Mary Christenbury. The celebration of Grier's life will be held at 4:00pm, Thursday, January 9, 2014, at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall. In Grier's honor we ask that you wear something orange or your favorite jersey. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Go Grier Go, 1503 Old Nation Road, Ft. Mill, SC 29715 or First Presbyterian Weekday School Scholarship Fund, 200 West Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.