L-R: Johnny Grant, Rod Stewart and Penelope Lancaster.
That's Johnny, presiding over Rod Stewart's Star Ceremony on
Hollywood Boulevard in front of the Kodak Theatre.

Johnny Grant
Passed Wednesday
January 9, 2008

That day, my husband informed me of the passing of the legendary Johnny Grant, the Honorary Mayor of Hollywood, CA. I could hardly believe it. I thought Johnny would live forever.

I'm sorry Johnny. Hey! 84 is a ripe old age and you had a good time in your life, so this is not a tragic end. It is however, a very sad thing for those of us who ran into you over the years, and traded quips here and there. I'll never forget your good-natured ribbing about my complaints about the cost of everything in Hollywood and "what makes you think you can write anyway? Just 'cause you're in print all over the place. Humph!"

You old goat. You made me laugh. You truly did. You were Hollywood's Village Greeter and there's no one who can possibly take your place. May you party hearty with your old friends and acquaintances. I'm sure they've welcomed you with open arms and filled glasses.

Jessie Lilley
Editor-in-chief