Moreland, GA, June 6, 2025—The Georgia Historical Society (GHS), in partnership with the Town of Moreland, the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance, and the Waters Family Foundation dedicated a new historical marker in Moreland on June 6, 2025, about Lewis Grizzard (1946–1994), the nationally syndicated columnist, bestselling author, and beloved Georgia humorist.
Born at Fort Benning and raised in Moreland, Lewis Grizzard became one of the South’s most recognizable voices, known for his wit, storytelling, and love of Southern culture. A new marker outside the Moreland Hometown Heritage Museum commemorates his legacy in journalism and humor.
The dedication drew friends, family, and fans for a morning of reflection with live column readings, free museum access, and a “Story Box” to share memories—celebrating both his lasting impact and the community he inspired.
“Lewis Grizzard was the leading Southern humorist of the 20th century,” said Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society. “In a region that has produced a legion of funny people, he was probably the funniest, mainly because he was so relatable—much of his comedy was at his own expense. Through his comical characters and humorous stories, Grizzard brought pleasure to millions of fans and reminded us that the challenges of being human are made easier with laughter.”
Grizzard launched his journalism career at the University of Georgia and, by 23, was the youngest executive sports editor of the Atlanta Journal. His career spanned more than two decades, most notably as a columnist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where his work reached a national audience. He published more than 20 books—18 of which were New York Times bestsellers—blending humor and sincerity, often pulling from his Georgia upbringing.
"Jordan and I are deeply grateful to the Georgia Historical Society for dedicating the historical marker in Moreland, Georgia, honoring the life and legacy of Lewis Grizzard,” said Dedra Grizzard O’Connor, widow of Lewis Grizzard. “Lewis touched the hearts of countless fans through his writing, capturing the spirit of Georgia and the small town of Moreland that he cherished so deeply. He was proud to be a Southerner, and his voice continues to resonate with so many who loved his humor, wit, and storytelling. We are honored to see Lewis recognized in this meaningful way, and we hope this marker will help keep his memory alive for generations to come.”
"For many years the fans and friends of Lewis Grizzard have worked hard to make certain his legacy of laughter and insight continue to be enjoyed by fans, old and new,” said Carol Chauncey, Executive Director of the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance, Inc. “The gift of a historical marker from the Georgia Historical Society, placed in his hometown, gives travelers the chance to learn about his talents and pique their curiosity to learn even more; the historical marker is a great honor. We welcome visitors throughout the week, even beyond the posted visiting hours (Thursday-Saturday 10am-3pm) to discover Lewis at the Moreland Hometown Heritage Museum: A Tribute to Lewis Grizzard. The Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance, which operates the museum, encourages everyone to visit and get a dose of ‘Grizzardisms.’”
The marker dedication took place at the Moreland Hometown Heritage Museum. Speakers included Winston Skinner, President of the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance; Mayor Dick Ford of Moreland; Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society; Dedra Grizzard O’Connor and Mary Ann Cauthen, members of the Grizzard family.
The marker text reads:
Lewis Grizzard (1946-1994)
Journalist, humorist, and author Lewis McDonald Grizzard, Jr., was born in Fort Benning, Georgia. Following his parents’ divorce, Grizzard and his mother, Christine, moved to Moreland. Attending the University of Georgia, he served as sports editor of the Athens Daily News and became the youngest-ever executive sports editor of the Atlanta Journal at age 23. In 1977 Grizzard began writing a column for the Atlanta Constitution that was syndicated in 450 newspapers. Grizzard wrote more than twenty books, eighteen of which were New York Times bestsellers (with titles like If Love Were Oil, I’d Be About a Quart Low), ranging in subject from his parents, his multiple marriages, his deep love of UGA football, and Southern life and culture. He also performed as a standup comic and actor. Lewis Grizzard died of heart failure at 47.
Erected by the Georgia Historical Society, the Town of Moreland, and the Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance
For more information about the Lewis Grizzard historical marker dedication or the Georgia Historical Society marker program, please contact Elyse Butler, Manager of Programs and Special Projects, at 912.651.2125 ext. 119, or ebutler@georgiahistory.com.
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ABOUT THE GEORGIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) is the premier independent statewide institution responsible for collecting, examining, and teaching Georgia and American history. GHS houses the oldest and most distinguished collection of materials related exclusively to Georgia history in the nation.
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ABOUT THE GEORGIA HISTORICAL MARKER PROGRAM
The Georgia Historical Marker Program is an important part of the Georgia Historical Society’s (GHS) statewide educational mission. Through a public-private partnership with the State of Georgia, GHS is responsible for erecting new historical markers and maintaining more than 2,000 markers installed by the State prior to the program’s privatization in 1998. Online mapping tools allow users to explore themed marker trails and design custom driving routes. Visit georgiahistory.com for more ways to use Georgia’s historical markers and experience history where it happened.