Kermit Eugene Grider, age 91, of Columbia, KY, peacefully passed away on March 1, 2026, at Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, KY. Born on December 29, 1934, in Russell County, KY, Kermit was a devoted educator whose impact on his community will be remembered by many.

Kermit was a member of the Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church. He graduated from Russell County High School and later attended the University of Kentucky, completing his degree after serving two years in the United States Army. He dedicated a significant part of his life to education, teaching mathematics at Lindsey Wilson College for seven years before concluding his career as the Superintendent of Adair County Schools for twelve years. His commitment to education was a testament to his love for learning and teaching, always inspiring students with his mathematical knowledge and passion for the subject.

Following his retirement from education, Kermit embarked on a new chapter in his life as a real estate agent, where he continued to thrive by building relationships and sharing his warmth with others. He maintained a vibrant spirit throughout his life, often seen with a smile and offering kind words to everyone he encountered, regardless of their familiarity. His respectful demeanor, particularly towards children, left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.

In his later years, Kermit resided at Bluegrass Way Memory Care, where he received exceptional care. The family expresses gratitude to the loving staff at Bluegrass Way Memory Care and Taylor Regional Hospital Hospice Care for their unwavering support during his final days.

Kermit is survived by his beloved wife, Hilda Coffey Grider; daughter, Dr. Ann Grider, and son-in-law, David Haupt, of Louisville, KY; two cherished grandchildren, Megan and Brian Haupt; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Loren and Ruby Conover Grider, and siblings, Hester Blankenship and Leon Grider.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am central time Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church with burial to follow in the Conover Cemetery, Military honors will be provided by VFW Post 6097.

Visitation will be on Friday from 4:00-7:00pm central time at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home, and will continue on Saturday from 9:00-11:00am central time at Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Conover Cemetery at 2785 Gentry Mill Rd. Russell Springs, KY 42642 or Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church at P.O. Box 563 Russell Springs, KY 42642.

Kermit Eugene Grider's legacy as a dedicated educator, loving husband, father, and friend will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed, yet his contributions to education and the kindness he shared will continue to inspire generations to come.