As National Grandparents Day approaches on September 13, 2026, the family of legendary singer-songwriter Bill Withers is celebrating a legacy that extends far beyond music. In July 2023, Marcia Withers, Bill's wife, and Kori Withers, his daughter, released a 32-page children's book based on his cherished 1971 song 'Grandma's Hands.' The book, available at https://grandmashandsbook.com, transforms Withers' heartfelt tribute to his grandmother into a visual narrative for young readers.
Originally featured on Withers' debut album 'Just as I Am,' 'Grandma's Hands' became a hit, reaching No. 18 on the Best Selling Soul Singles chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's enduring appeal lies in its universal portrayal of a grandmother's comforting presence and lasting influence. Now, with illustrations by multiple award-winning artist R. Gregory Christie, the book brings those lyrics to life, evoking warmth, memory, and unconditional love. It 'celebrates the love, wisdom, and strength of grandmothers everywhere,' according to the release, offering families a tender way to connect across generations.
But the Withers family's efforts go beyond publishing. They have kept Bill's values alive through extensive 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 him from Generations United, a Washington DC-based organization advocating for inter-generational families. The family has also 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, has performed her father's songs at events such as a recent concert benefiting Free Horse Arts, a nonprofit offering equine-assisted programs for individuals with diverse abilities. She serves on its board, honoring the bond with nature that shaped her father's inner life. These efforts reflect Bill Withers' lifelong empathy and a commitment to nurturing future storytellers and songwriters.
The release of the children's book and the family's ongoing service matter because they demonstrate how art can transcend entertainment to become a tool for social good. In a time when intergenerational connections are increasingly valuable, 'Grandma's Hands' reminds readers of the wisdom and love passed down through families. The book also provides a tangible way for grandparents and grandchildren to share moments of reflection and joy. Moreover, the Withers family's philanthropic work—from scholarships to nonprofit board service—shows that legacy is not just about remembering the past but actively building a better future. As National Grandparents Day invites reflection, the story of 'Grandma's Hands' stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, music, and service.
