News Summary
Birmingham mourns the loss of Rubin Grant, a prominent sports writer and Baptist minister, who passed away unexpectedly at 67. Known for his extensive coverage of high school sports and the Birmingham Barons, he made significant contributions to Alabama’s sports journalism. Grant’s legacy extends beyond reporting; he was a dedicated mentor and community figure, earning numerous accolades throughout his career. His achievements include receiving the Mel Allen Media Award and being recognized as a legend by the Alabama Sports Writers Association.
Birmingham – Rubin Grant, a celebrated sports writer and Baptist minister, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 67. Grant was lauded for his extensive contributions to sports journalism in Alabama, earning recognition as one of the 50 legends of the Alabama Sports Writers Association in 2022.
Throughout his distinguished career, Grant dedicated over 25 years to the Birmingham Post-Herald, where he established a reputation as a passionate and committed high school sports writer. His coverage helped to elevate the profile of local sports, highlighting both emerging athletes and storied programs. In addition to high school sports, Grant reported on the Birmingham Barons, the local minor league baseball team, for the same duration, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2008.
Grant’s journalistic journey began at Carver-Montgomery High School, followed by his enrollment at the University of Alabama. Notably, he served as the first Black sports editor for the Crimson White student newspaper from 1978 to 1979, paving the way for future generations of aspiring journalists.
Career Highlights
During his tenure at the Birmingham Post-Herald, Grant collaborated with prominent sports writers such as Bill Lumpkin, Ray Melick, and Paul Finebaum. His coverage extended to notable sports figures, including basketball great Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan during Jordan’s stints playing for the Barons. In 1981, Grant was awarded the Herby Kirby Award for the best overall sports story, sharing the accolade with Lumpkin and Finebaum for their work on the recruitment of Bobby Lee Hurt.
Following his departure from the Birmingham Post-Herald in 2004, Grant transitioned to freelance journalism and took on the role of sports editor for The Over the Mountain Journal. He further contributed to literature by co-authoring the book “Tales from Alabama Prep Football” with Ron Ingram, showcasing the history and culture of high school football in the state.
A Legacy of Faith and Community
In addition to his journalistic achievements, Grant was a licensed Baptist minister. He actively shared his Christian faith through devotionals and was known for his warm and inviting personality, often lifting the spirits of those around him. Colleagues and friends remembered him for his remarkable ability to foster relationships, offering encouragement and support throughout various life stages.
His impact on sports journalism did not go unnoticed within the community. In 2021, Grant received the Mel Allen Media Award from the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, acknowledging his lifetime contributions to sports media in the state. The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) expressed condolences to Grant’s family and community, underscoring his significant role in sports journalism and education-based athletics.
Memorial Services
A visitation will be held at Smith & Gaston Funeral Services, followed by a memorial gathering at Mountain Brook Community Church. The community will gather to celebrate Grant’s life and legacy, honoring a man whose influence extended far beyond the realms of sports journalism.
Grant leaves behind a profound legacy in both journalism and ministry, remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his character and the lasting friendships he forged.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beloved Alabama Sports Writer Rubin Grant Passes Away
Remembering Rubin E. Grant: A Pioneer in Alabama Sports Journalism
Birmingham Mayoral Race Intensifies with Rising Controversies
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Remembering Rubin Grant
- AHSAA: Mourning Rubin Grant
- Sports Illustrated: Rubin Grant Dies
- Wikipedia: Rubin Grant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rubin Grant
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
