It is with heavy hearts, the Grant family announces the passing of Ida Johnson Grant, who departed this life on March 15, 2025, at the age of 100. The Celebration of Ida’s life will be held, Saturday, April 5, 2025, Family hour is 10:00 a.m. and the Service at 11:00 a.m., at The Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 2207 N. 2nd Street Milwaukee Wisconsin, 53212.
Ida Grant was born on October 8, 1924, in Bessemer, Alabama, Ida was the cherished daughter of Archie and Rose Sears Johnson. She was especially proud of her mother, Rosie—a devoted Christian woman who empowered African Americans by teaching them the literacy skills needed to pass voter registration tests. Strength and resilience were in Ida’s heritage. Her grandmother, Fannie, of Native American descent, lived to be 103. Educated through the 10th grade, Fannie was also a dedicated minister in the Church of God in Alabama.
Ida pursued her education at the Delta Industrial Institute in Dodgeville, Mississippi, graduating in 1943 as an educator. Ida devoted her life to her family and to her church. She was known for her gentle smile, encouraging spirit, and unforgettable meals. At Mt. Zion Baptist Church, she served faithfully as an usher, lovingly ministering to all who crossed her path. A visionary and a woman of determination, Ida believed she could accomplish anything she set her heart to. Seeing an opportunity within her community, she became one of the first African American Avon sales representatives, blazing a trail for others to follow. Her entrepreneurial spirit continued in 1979 when, alongside her husband and son, she established Grant’s Golden Skillet on Teutonia Avenue. This was followed by Grant’s Soul Food on North Avenue, Grant’s Big Dog at Northridge Mall, a Restaurant at Milwaukee’s Summerfest, and Ebony Catering Service. Through these ventures, she not only shared her culinary gifts but also created first-time job opportunities for hundreds of African American teenagers, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
