News Summary
Rubin E. Grant, a notable journalist and media pioneer, has passed away at 68. With a legacy in sports journalism, he reported on iconic figures and events, and received numerous accolades throughout his career. Known for his insights on high school football and minor-league baseball, Grant’s contributions to Alabama journalism will be remembered by colleagues and fans alike.
Birmingham, Alabama – Rubin E. Grant, a distinguished journalist and media pioneer in Alabama, has passed away at the age of 68. His extensive career spanned decades, during which he became a respected voice in sports journalism, earning accolades for his insightful reporting on renowned athletes and significant events in the region.
Throughout his career, Grant reported on legendary football coach Paul W. “Bear” Bryant and highlighted emerging talents in high school football, including Bo Jackson, Cornelius Bennett, and Carnell “Cadillac” Williams. His dedication to sports journalism also extended to minor-league baseball, where he spent 25 years covering the Birmingham Barons, ultimately leading to his induction into the Birmingham Barons Hall of Fame.
In 2021, Grant was awarded the Mel Allen Media Award by the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his substantial contributions to the field of sports media. The following year, he was celebrated as one of the 50 Legends of the Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) during the organization’s 50th anniversary. His work in journalism was further acknowledged in 1981 when he received the Herby Kirby Award for the story of the year.
For the past two decades, Grant transitioned to a self-employed and freelance writer, contributing articles to various publications such as AL.com, The Birmingham News, Lindy Sports Magazine, and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. In addition, he co-authored the book “Tales from Alabama Prep Football,” sharing stories from the commendable football landscape of the state.
Grant’s long-standing career began at the Birmingham Post-Herald, where he dedicated 25 years and held the position of prep editor before taking a brief role at the Hoover Gazette. He graduated from the University of Alabama in 1979, making history as the first Black sports editor of the university’s student newspaper, the Crimson White. Notably, in 2002, he won first place at the Alabama Associated Press Managing Editors Competition for his columns focused on high school sports.
The circumstances surrounding Grant’s death have not been disclosed, and further updates will be provided as information becomes available. He leaves behind his wife, Dena, and their daughter, Krystal. Beyond journalism, Grant was also a licensed Baptist minister and a passionate supporter of sports, with baseball and later the NFL at the forefront of his interests.
Throughout his impressive career, Grant often expressed gratitude for the mentorship he received from fellow journalists and sports figures, which played a pivotal role in his development and success in the industry. His contributions to Alabama journalism, particularly in sports, have left an indelible mark on the community and will be remembered by colleagues and fans alike.
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Additional Resources
- SI.com: Legendary Alabama Sports Writer Rubin Grant Dies
- OTMJ: Rubin Grant Named a Legend of Alabama Sports Writing
- Birmingham Times: Rubin Grant Honored with 50 Other Legends
- AL.com: Birmingham News
- MSN: Legendary Alabama Sports Writer Rubin Grant Dies
- Wikipedia: Rubin Grant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports Journalism
- Google Search: Rubin Grant
- Google News: Rubin Grant
- Google Scholar: Rubin Grant
