Grant Tew

Grant Tew (Jerry Grandon Tew, Jr), age 63, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Grant was born on March 9, 1962, to Jerry and Idell Tew in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He graduated from Jordan High School in 1980 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from North Carolina State University in 1984. He was a devoted Wolfpack fan! NCSU was where he met his bride and love of his life, Elizabeth Willkie, and they married on November 16, 1985, beginning an adventurous journey together. They were blessed to raise three beautiful children, Julie Ellen, Jamie Nicole, and Geoffrey Holton.

With more than 30 years of hands-on work in Environmental Health and Safety, and a reputation respected by national and global consultants, Grant was sought out by Koch Industries for the rare combination he brought with him: exceptional expertise, steady leadership, and genuine care for the people his work was meant to protect. In his role, Grant traveled extensively across the country and around the world, helping identify risks and safeguard employees, families, and communities living near major manufacturing sites. He eventually moved to Wichita, Kansas with his family to be closer to key leaders and help shape the future of the organization, accepting the role of Director of the EHS Audit and Advisory Team. Grant played a pivotal role in evolving the audit team into a trusted advisory partner built on collaboration, foresight, and shared responsibility resulting in safer workplaces.

Grant had a deep passion for music, travel, sports, and the great outdoors. He played the trombone from his early days in high school jazz band through his years performing with the praise team. Music remained a defining part of his life, spanning many genres he loved. He also led his family on trips across the country and abroad, always encouraging them to immerse themselves in the local culture and try new experiences.

His life, his values, and his love for his family and friends will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Grant was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Grandon Tew. He is survived by his mother, Idell; his wife, Elizabeth; daughters, Julie Shannon (Andrew) and Jamie Lindsted (Casey); son Geoffrey Tew; brother, Stephen Tew (Edith); nieces, Ashleigh and Heather; and nephew, Connor.

Kansas Visitation with Family: Floating reception 2:30pm – 4:30pm, Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Christ Church, 14242 E. 21st St. N., Wichita, KS 67230.

North Carolina Memorial Service with reception: 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Friday, May 22, 2026, The Raleigh Rose Garden, 301 Pogue St., Raleigh, NC 27607.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research in memory of Grant.