As National Grandparents Day approaches on September 13, 2026, the family of legendary singer Bill Withers is honoring his legacy through a children's book and ongoing philanthropic efforts. The book, based on Withers' 1971 song 'Grandma's Hands,' was released in July 2023 and was created by his wife, Marcia Withers, and daughter, Kori Withers. This 32-page picture book, illustrated by award-winning artist R. Gregory Christie, brings the song's lyrics to life, celebrating the universal bond between grandparents and grandchildren.
'Grandma's Hands' originally appeared on Bill Withers' debut album 'Just as I Am' and became a hit, reaching No. 18 on the Best Selling Soul Singles chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, capturing her comforting presence and lasting influence. Now, through this book, that tribute reaches a new generation. The book is available at https://grandmashandsbook.com.
But the Withers family's commitment goes beyond publishing. 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, and 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, has performed her father's songs at events such as a concert benefiting Free Horse Arts, a nonprofit offering equine-assisted programs for individuals with diverse abilities. She also serves on its board, reflecting Bill Withers' lifelong empathy and her own commitment to restorative community initiatives.
This news matters because it demonstrates how a celebrity's legacy can be channeled into sustained social good. In an era where celebrity philanthropy often garners skepticism, the Withers family's hands-on involvement in education, disability advocacy, and intergenerational programs offers a credible model. For the music industry, it highlights the potential for artists' works to transcend entertainment and become tools for education and community building. The children's book, in particular, provides a tangible way for families to connect across generations, reinforcing the values of love, wisdom, and strength that Bill Withers sang about.
Moreover, the Withers family's partnership with the BulLion Foundation, a nonprofit that provides resources to underprivileged youth through arts, music, and sports, extends their impact globally. This alignment of art and service ensures that Bill Withers' legacy is not just remembered but actively carried forward. As Grandparents Day is celebrated, the story of 'Grandma's Hands' serves as a reminder that legacies are built both in personal moments and in how we uplift others.
