Harold L. Grist

Harold L. Grist, 92, of East Greenwich, passed away on Wednesday, July 4, 2018 (his birthday). He was the loving husband of Edith (Erickson) Grist for 69 years. Born in Johnston, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Carrie (Lawton) Grist. He was a graduate of Cranston High School and University of Rhode Island with a major in Accounting. Mr. Grist was a Naval veteran of World War II on the U.S.S. St. Croix, serving in the Pacific. He retired from Sun Oil Company after 33 years of service as a financial manager in their Providence, Philadelphia, Chicago, Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Tulsa district offices. His volunteer activities were numerous, including: United Way Drives, Junior Achievement, Y.M.C.A., Parent Teacher League, and Little League. He retired in South County and continued his volunteerism with Seniors Helping Others, Meals on Wheels, South Kingstown Senior Center, Salt Pond Coalition, South Kingstown Economic Development Commission and he was also an active member and deacon of Wakefield Baptist Church. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a lifelong member of St. Andrews Lodge #39 of Freemasonry in Riverside, RI. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Paula J. Grist, her husband, Mark Vaughan and daughter-in-law, Sharon Grist, grandchildren Julia and Andrew Vaughan and Mason and Ashlynne Grist, and brother, David I. Grist. He was predeceased by his son, Daniel L. Grist and brother, Warren R. Grist. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at 11am in Wakefield Baptist Church, 236 Main St, Wakefield, RI. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wakefield Baptist Church.