Joseph Raymond Gant, the third eldest child of the late Clarice Elizabeth Queen and James Louis Gant, was born on July 5, 1938. After a brief battle with cancer, Raymond departed this life on friday, July 17, 2009, in the arms of his son, Kevin Gant. "Raymond," as he was called by family and friends, was also affectionately known by many as "Grasshopper" or Rainbow." Raymond attended the District of Columbia public school system in Washington, DC. At an early age, he received his religious instruction from Saint Cyprian Catholic Church and school, also in DC. Raymond moved to Baltimore in the early 70's. He was employed by United Steel and Drum for approximately 20 years until the company closed. Afterwards, he would periodically work in and around Baltimore until his demise. Raymond enjoyed traveling to different places. He often told of his excursion to the Islands, but his greatest past-time and first love was fishing. He loved to go fishing, and spoke with great pride of his catches. he also enjoyed a good football game and other sports. "Grasshopper"/"Rainbow"" was a fun loving person. His bubbly personality was very infectious. He loved to crack jokes and was the heart of every party and gathering. He will truly be missed by all. Raymond leaves to cherish his memories, his loving and devoted children, Rayshawn Brooks of Boston, MA, Kevin Gant, and Raymond Gant Jr., of Baltimore, MD; a loving aunt, Irene Hines of DC; two brothers, James Ritaand Thomas Gant of Mitchellville, MD; sisters, Doretha Gilliam, Janice Gibson, of DC; Paulette T Cecelia Gant, of Temple Hills, MD; and Gloria Anthony Beynum, of DC; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two truly devoted friends Martha and Fairley White; and a host of nieces, nephew, cousins and other relatives and friends. Raymond was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Gant-Roberson.