Former Glen Raven President Roger Gant Jr. dies at 86
Served on fabric supplier's board for 55 years
Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, July 28, 2010
 Roger Gant Jr. |
BURLINGTON, N.C. — Roger Gant Jr., former president and board member of performance fabrics source Glen Raven, had died. He was 86.
Gant, who was a second-generation descendent of the founder of Glen Raven, spent his entire career there. He joined the company in 1948 after serving in the Army during World War II and graduating from the University of North Carolina.
Gant held several positions at Glen Raven. He was named president in 1972 and remained in that post until his retirement in 1989. He also served on the board of directors for 55 years and was named director emeritus upon his retirement in 2001.
During Gant's tenure, Glen Raven's sales quintupled. He also is credited with helping launch the Sunbrella brand of performance fabrics for awnings, boats and furniture in 1961.
Under Gant's leadership, Glen Raven contributed to the educational programs at the University of North Carolina, North Carolina State University and the Institute of Textile Technology. Gant received a lifetime achievement award from the Industrial Fabrics Assn. International.
He also was involved with several community groups including Boy Scouts, the Salvation Army, the United Way and his church and diocese.
Gant is survived by his wife, two daughters, a son, five grandchildren, one brother, three sisters and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Partners Inc., Assistance Program for Glen Raven Employees, 1831 North Park Ave., Glen Raven, N.C. 27217, and Alamance Regional Medical Center Heart Track Program, P.O. Box 202, Burlington, N.C. 27216.
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