National Grandparents Day on September 13, 2026, provides a moment to reflect on how legacies are built through art and service. For the family of legendary singer-songwriter Bill Withers, that legacy is both musical and philanthropic, anchored by a children's book adaptation of his cherished song 'Grandma's Hands.'
Released in July 2023, the 32-page children's book was created by Withers' wife, Marcia Withers, and daughter, Kori Withers. It transforms the lyrics of 'Grandma's Hands' into a visual narrative illustrated by multiple award-winning artist R. Gregory Christie. The book celebrates the love, wisdom, and strength of grandmothers everywhere, bringing to life the comfort and guidance conveyed in the original song.
Originally released in 1971 on Withers' debut album 'Just as I Am,' 'Grandma's Hands' was an ode to his grandmother. The single climbed to No. 18 on the Best Selling Soul Singles chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, through this book, that personal tribute has become a universal tale for new generations.
Beyond the page, the Withers family has carried forward Bill's values through community engagement. They have established music education scholarships and support emerging songwriters through the annual Songwriters Hall of Fame's Bill Withers Scholarship. Marcia Withers serves on the board of the Stuttering Association of the Young (SAY), which honored Bill in 2007. In June 2025, she accepted an award for Bill from Generations United, a Washington DC-based organization advocating for inter-generational families.
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. The BulLion Foundation, a nonprofit, multi-cultural global initiative, also supports underprivileged youth through arts, music, and sports.
For business and technology leaders, this story underscores how creative intellectual property can be extended into new formats and social missions. The Withers family demonstrates that legacy is not just about preserving past achievements but about actively applying them to current challenges. By linking a beloved song to children's literature and charitable causes, they show how brands and individuals can build enduring relevance while giving back.
As AI and digital platforms reshape entertainment and philanthropy, the Withers model offers a blueprint: use art to connect generations, and pair commercial success with community investment. The book, available at https://grandmashandsbook.com, stands as a testament to that approach. In an era where authenticity and social responsibility drive consumer and employee engagement, the Withers family's efforts illustrate the tangible impact of aligning creative work with a purpose-driven mission.
