Elijah Gant Jr.

     Elijah Gant Jr. was born on the 28th of April in the year of our Lord 1940. He was born in Huger, South Carolina to the late Elijah Gantt Sr. and Lottie Magginis. Bubba was the 5th child born of 14, the father of 3, embraced grandfather of 17, embraced great-grand-father of 8, and embraced great-great-grand-father of 3.   

     While each of “The Gantt (Gant) Siblings” obviously had their own distinct personalities, often called “Joe,” he would prove no different. Elijah had a knack for the Bible. He helped many students of God understand “The Word,” comprehend Jesus’s actions, and hold on to the faith and the promises of our Lord and Savior.

     Instilled with a sense of responsibility, tenacity, and leadership, upon his father’s passing, Elijah stepped up to help lead his family. Moving with his heart, Elijah accepted Christ into his life at an early age. He rapidly became known as a Bible Scholar… Bubba was quick to “drop knowledge,” or deliver a sermon upon demand.    

     Elijah knew how to make his resources stretch, while simultaneously being a razor-sharp dresser... he was tall, dark, and handsome. Destined to be tall and slim he took pride in making sure every hair was in place, nails were trimmed and clean, ensuring his clothing was ready to impress anyone looking in general his direction.    

Armed with tough life lessons and grateful successes, it was easy for Elijah to ascend into management. Eventually, he conquered the role of Director of Housekeeping at one of the busiest Level I Trauma hospitals in South Florida.    

     Deciding to take on various roles later in life, Bubba was still known as, “The Go-to Man” working and at a private Christian institution. If he didn’t know the answer, he would find it. He instilled a level of love, kindness, respect, and authentic humanity that made him loveable not only to family but to those that took the time to get to know him.  

       In life, Elijah still found time to find time to be still…  finding peace in the moment. He’d often spend time on the beach “people watching,” picking sea grapes, eating guineps, digging his feet in the sand, but mostly spending time with family and friends. It was on one of those very occasions, during the 1970’s, Bubba met, the now late, legend… “The Greatest, Muhammad Ali,” (before he was famous).

        Although Daddy may not have said it aloud often, he was passionate about The Word, and family. Elijah displayed his love through his know-how, patience… {however long the duration} and his faith. Sometimes choosing tough love regardless of the optics… proving as a patriarch “we” his relatives and descendants have enough to make it.    

     “Go to school and get your education; you have to be independent,” he’d continuously tell any young person willing to listen. Perceptive 50 years ago, and even more so today his words hold true. He just wanted the best opportunity “we” all could have to live our lives.

     Although he had a stern looking face, and a “Nice-Nasty” demeanor, when he had enough, he truly had a warm heart.“Joe Louis” was always concerned for those who were not able to care for themselves. Concerned with those who he feared to homeless, he prayed daily. He was tough, strong, and a leader in his own right. No human being is perfect, but he helped more people than one could ever imagine while providing for so many more.

     Bubba was entertaining and loved to be amused. Watching him giggle and chuckle while on the phone with family and friends discussing the “old days” would warm anyone’s heart. One could always tell when something was shocking, because you might hear him say, “Great day in the morning, or “Come on in the house with that.” 

     He often laughed hard, his eyes watered and he’d need a tissue. He loved and believed in being happy with what you have and laughing until one’s heart was content.

     And of course, when Bubba was ready to end a conversation, a classic “All right, all right,” was inevitable, which essentially meant… okay he’ll talk to you next time, “God willing, life last.”

          Elder Elijah Gant Jr…. Be in Power amongst God’s Army. You will be missed!

Preceded in death by his parents, Elijah “Poppa” Gantt Sr., Lottie (Magginis); former spouse, Shirley G. Gant; siblings, Benjamin “Sam” Gantt Sr., Cebell Crawford, Christoper Gantt, Edward Gantt, Harold “Rell” Gant, Martha “Tugga-Pop” White, Mary, Elizabeth “Pop” Smalls, Willie “Tadpole” Gantt.

Left to relish in memories of Bubba are: spouse, Delores R. Gant; children (Embraced): Joycelyn “Joy” Walker (Max), Andre “Torri” “Tiger” Gant, M. Elizabeth “Cookie” Gant, Raleigh Roberson, Katanesha “Nikki” Pearson, Rebecca Smith; siblings, Blondell “Peanie” Bennett, Jessie Mae “Granny” Lundy, Marion Gant; grandchildren (Embraced): Mazon D. Walker, Myyles D. Walker, Ross K. Gant, Crystal K. Gant, Bria K. Gant, Te-Kira M. Parker, Brian K. Williams, Isaiah “Bubba” L. Roberson Haleigh N. Roberson, Raleigh L. Roberson “RJ,” Adien C. Roberson, Aria C. Roberson, Sir Raleigh Lee “Sir” Roberson, Matthias, Jalen L. Moore, Jaylon L. Moore.  Great-Grandchildren (Embraced): Alexis K. Gant, Nevaeh T. Owens, Natasha T. Owens, Nylah T. Owens, Nia T. Owens, Brandon I. Tucker, Ellarie “Baby O” Jordan, Zane D. Baskins, Ashleigh N. Gassaway (Jerron); Great-Greatgrandchildren (Embraced): Heaven K. “Pop-Pop” Williams, Malia K. “Chicken” Conley, Anyah N. Gassaway, Zarriah V. Gassaway, Jerremiah Elliot-Rashad “Sterling” “Dubie” Gassaway; in addition to a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

Memorial service 10 am – 11:30 am Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Truth Tabernacle Inc., 1169 Old Church Road, Cordesville, SC  29434.

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