As National Grandparents Day approaches on September 13, 2026, the legacy of Bill Withers extends far beyond his music. His cherished song 'Grandma's Hands' has been transformed into a 32-page children's book by his wife, Marcia Withers, and daughter, Kori Withers, released in July 2023. This book is more than a retelling; it is a tribute that celebrates the love, wisdom, and strength of grandmothers everywhere, and it underscores how the Withers family continues to honor Bill's values through art and service.
Originally released in 1971 on Withers' debut album 'Just as I Am,' 'Grandma's Hands' was a heartfelt ode to his grandmother's comforting presence and lasting influence. The single climbed to No. 18 on the Best Selling Soul Singles chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, with illustrations by multiple award-winning artist R. Gregory Christie, the book brings the lyrics to life, evoking warmth, memory, and unconditional love through rich visuals. It is a tender, visual narrative that taps into the universal bond between grandparents and grandchildren, making it a perfect way to honor National Grandparents Day.
The significance of this book lies not only in its artistic merit but also in its embodiment of Bill Withers' legacy of service. The Withers family has kept his values alive through community engagement. Marcia Withers serves on the board of the Stuttering Association of the Young (SAY), which honored Bill in 2007, and in June 2025, she accepted an award for Bill from Generations United, a Washington DC-based organization advocating for inter-generational families. Additionally, the family has established music education scholarships and supports emerging songwriters through the annual Songwriters Hall of Fame's Bill Withers Scholarship.
Kori Withers, a singer-songwriter in her own right, carries forward her father's melodious and compassionate spirit. She has performed his songs at events such as a recent concert benefiting Free Horse Arts, a nonprofit offering equine-assisted programs for individuals with diverse abilities—a cause reflecting Bill Withers' lifelong empathy. Her work with Free Horse Arts runs deeper as she serves on its board, honoring the bond with nature that shaped her father's inner life. Through these efforts, the Withers family demonstrates that legacy is built both in moments of personal love and in how we continue to uplift others.
The children's book is available at https://grandmashandsbook.com, and it stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and service. As we celebrate our grandparents, the story of 'Grandma's Hands' reminds us that love endures through performance, scholarship, and community. This initiative matters because it shows how one family's dedication can inspire future generations, fostering creativity and giving back. In a world where legacies often fade, the Withers family proves that through art and service, love can be carried forward indefinitely.
