As National Grandparents Day approaches on September 13, 2026, the enduring legacy of Bill Withers is being celebrated not only through his timeless music but also through a children's book and a series of philanthropic efforts that embody his values. The book, based on Withers' cherished song 'Grandma's Hands,' was released in July 2023 and is a collaboration between his wife, Marcia Withers, and daughter, Kori Withers. This 32-page illustrated book transforms the heartfelt lyrics into a visual narrative that honors the love, wisdom, and strength of grandmothers everywhere.
Originally released in 1971 on Withers' debut album 'Just as I Am,' 'Grandma's Hands' was a tribute to his own grandmother, capturing her comforting presence and lasting influence. The song achieved commercial success, reaching No. 18 on the Best Selling Soul Singles chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, decades later, the book adaptation brings those lyrics to life through the artwork of multiple award-winning illustrator R. Gregory Christie. The book is more than just a tribute; it is a testament to the universal bond between grandparents and grandchildren, evoking warmth, memory, and unconditional love.
The Withers family has also carried forward Bill's commitment to community and creativity. 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 intergenerational families. Additionally, the family has established music education scholarships and supports emerging songwriters through the annual Songwriters Hall of Fame's Bill Withers Scholarship. These initiatives reflect Bill Withers' lifelong empathy and his belief in nurturing future talents.
Kori Withers, a singer-songwriter in her own right, continues to perform her father's songs at events that benefit causes close to his heart. Recently, she performed at a concert benefiting Free Horse Arts, a nonprofit offering equine-assisted programs for individuals with diverse abilities. Kori serves on the board of Free Horse Arts, honoring the bond with nature that shaped her father's inner life. Her involvement in such causes demonstrates how the Withers legacy extends beyond music to touch lives in meaningful ways.
The children's book, available at https://grandmashandsbook.com, is a tangible piece of that legacy, offering families a way to connect with Withers' message of love and gratitude. Moreover, the BulLion Foundation, a nonprofit, multi-cultural global initiative, aligns with the Withers family's mission by providing underprivileged youth with opportunities and resources through arts, music, sports, and other disciplines. This synergy highlights how Bill Withers' spirit of giving continues to inspire action.
In a time when intergenerational connections are increasingly vital, the Withers family's efforts serve as a reminder that legacy is built both in moments of personal love and in how we uplift others. The book, the performances, and the scholarships are all part of a larger narrative that celebrates the enduring power of family, art, and service. As we honor grandparents this September, the story of 'Grandma's Hands' resonates more than ever, reminding us that the lessons and love passed down through generations can inspire positive change in the world.
