William CORTELYOU Gant Obituary

We announce the death of William CORTELYOU Gant (West Helena, Arkansas), who passed away on August 13, 2026, at the age of 79. William will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by: his mother Rev. Virgie; his parents-in-law, Rev. William R., Sr. and Perline Leggette Young; his sisters, Vera Gant Boss (William), Elva Gant Butler and Verbie Gant Walker (Theautis); and his siblings-in-law, O. Dean Young and Peggy J. Young.

He is survived by: his wife Debora Costella Young-Gant; his sister Virgie L. Gant-Phillips (Leon, II); his children, Kattie Jordan (Elex), Shilana D. Gant, Amanda C. Gant, Greg Childress, William D. Gant, Sr. (Monique) and Cortelyou Gant (Sheila); his grandchildren, Lakeshia Evans (Eric), Latrenda Hill, Lahollis Hill, Raven Bunch (William), Justin Childress (Sarenina), Christiana Childress, Coriano Banks, William D. Gant, Jr., Gavin Gant, Carter Gant, Gabrielle Rose Gant, Malcolm Gant, Devonte Bradley (Jacorah), Shania Gant and Miashia Clark; his goddaughter Feebe Armstrong; and his siblings-in-law, Lavaughn Young Dunlap, Joyce E. Young Hunt (Carl), Howard L. Young, William R. Young, Jr. (Gwen), Purvis Young, Benjamin Young, Charles Young (Tina) and Larry Young (Brenda). He is also survived by 19 great grandchildren and 7 great great grandchildren.