When I was an Interim Manager in a market where Kim was the Business Consultant, he welcomed me and treated me with kindness and respect even though I was not yet an Operator. Barely knowing me, Kim even took time to review some of my business results and do some practice interviewing with me. As others have said, Kim was incredibly warm and relational, and you could tell he genuinely cared about others around him. Prayers for peace, comfort, and joy for his family!

Like so many, there are no words - just the feeling of loss. Kim was so kind and caring. A terrific smile that lights up a room and could make your day! I'm thankful for the opportunity to have worked with him over the years. I can't imagine the loss his family is feeling. Covering you all with prayers of peace and comfort! He has left such a legacy and with his last moments on earth thinking of others, sacrificing himself - what a way to start eternity with our heavenly father!! A TRUE hero! Comfort in knowing we will see him again soon! 

I met Kim at work several years back and we talked about how his daughter was choosing which college she was wanted to go to. After only one conversation I immediately came away thinking what a positive and friendly person he was. Every time I saw him in the office after that, he always said hello and remembered my name. Praying for your family, knowing you will miss him so so much.

Had the privilege to know Kim for the last 7 years. My first interactions with him was when I was a Team Member at Chick-fil-A and Kim was my operators BC for 5 years. When I was selected to be an operator, Kim called me to congratulate me before we even made it back to the airport in Atlanta. He was a great listener and encourager. Will miss Kim and his dedication to the Lord, his family and his friends. What a legacy Kim has left. Kim is a true Hero. Praying for McGrady Family.

Kim was a member of the 1984 class of Tullahoma High School and we are so sad that he is gone. We remember his smiling face and his kindness toward all. The fact that he lost his life in an attempt to save others comes as no surprise to those of us who knew him as a young man. His parents were so loving and gracious and always very proud of him. I can imagine the huge hole he left behind in the hearts of his family, work colleagues and friends far and near as all of us who were lucky to grow up with him feel the acute pain of his loss.

I am at a complete loss of words and my heart hurts having learned a truly great man who lived with integrity and purpose with with a kind generous soul, sincere interest in getting to know his fellow man and quick to share a laugh had passed. When I think of Kim I think of a man of integrity who stands behind his conviction. Getting to Joplin, Mo isn’t the easiest thing especially when priorities pull you in so many directions, but at Kim’s urging (repeated but in the most genuine humble respectful way possible) we made it out there to assess our store there and focus on doing the RIGHT THING long term. Today the right thing is happening in Joplin because of Kim’s conviction and forward thinking. What I’m most grateful for is the time we got to spend laughing uproariously and getting to know each other ... felt like planes trains and automobiles. What a great guy to road trip with... do life with and get a birds eye seat and see how a real man handles himself the right way. Those lives saved on that fateful day had a guardian Angel in Kim... and know he will continue to be that guardian Angel to you Leigh Ann, Kayleigh and Colton.

Kim was the kind of person who demonstrated a true concern and care for others. At the end of every conversation or experience with him, I left feeling encouraged and happy. He was remarkable in the way he placed others above himself. I joined "the" tailgate one Saturday to watch my Dawgs play at Auburn. Kim was such a welcoming host to me and my son, Jake. He was interested in Jake and took time to ask questions, listen, and offer encouragement. That was Kim. Selfless and supportive, always. 

My prayers and love go out to Kim's family. Kim was a great man who embodied the values many of us hold dear. Kim was always thinking of others. I always appreciated his great positivity about life. He will be greatly missed by all. 

Kim will be missed greatly. Always smiling, welcoming, caring, thoughtful. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to know just a glimpse of him. He was a positive influence on me and so many others in the way he led and cared for others. 

I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Kim and my condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones. May God provide peace and comfort during this very difficult time. Kim was an absolute pleasure to work with and had such an incredible spirit about him. He was always positive in his approach and absolutely loved what he did. He had a true servant spirit and will be missed greatly.

I haven't known Kim for long, but in a company full of genuinely kind and friendly people, Kim really stood out. My prayers are with his family now and in the future as they grapple with this loss.

I had the pleasure to work with Kim at the Support Center and he had truly had a positive impact on me personally and professionally. We had an opportunity to cross-travel together on multiple occasions and through those experiences I was able to see how great of a man he was. He loved the Lord and he loved his family. He made me feel at home at the Support Center and while I'm early on in my career, Kim was someone I looked to as a role model. I'm grateful to God and his family for allowing Kim to be shared with us. While this is a tough loss, I pray that God comforts his family and continues to allow Kim's light to shine through us all.

I’m sorry for your loss. I do not know Kim and family, but my family was in Destin at the time this occurred.
We lost my boyfriend’s son due to injuries and trauma due to a rip current drowning in October of 2020 and can empathize with the pain and hurt the family is experiencing right now.

Kim was one of my favorite Field Ops co-workers. He was always professional, a great listener and asks thoughtful questions. He was a reliable friend and passionate about his work and service. Always smiling and willing to help others. Kim, you will be missed and we love you.

Our family passes along our heart felt condolences. We were on the beach last Thursday and Kim McGrady and his family have been weighing heavy on our hearts. My friend that was with me realized she had met and spoken with Kim that morning in the elevator. He had on an Auburn pullover and she had stayed in Auburn the earlier in the week on her way to Florida. They had a nice chat about Auburn and how she had stayed at the Collegiate and eaten at Hamilton's. They chatted about their children who were both college athletes. The McGrady family will forever be in our prayers. 

Kim was one of the first people to reach out to me when I was new to the office. He noticed, introduced himself, and asked to get to know me. As I continued to work with Kim throughout the years that always stuck with me. Kim led with humility and care and is an inspiring example for me.

I had the honor of serving with Kim in the Mighty Midwest Region from 2013-2016. Kim was the real deal. He was a man of true character, integrity, selfless, always smiling, and putting others before himself. He could always make you smile! He loved his family very much and always talked about them any chance he got. I have fond memories of many cross travels with him and will miss seeing his smiling face and having impromptu conversations with him at his workspace in Oakmont. He always encouraged me to be the best husband and father.
Our earthly loss is Heaven's gain.
My sincere condolences and prayers for Leigh Anne, Kayleigh and Colton and the rest of Kim's family during this difficult time.

Kim served others with great passion and was the ultimate source of positivity. Everyone that was blessed enough to know him, left every interaction with him a better person and likely a smile on their face...his was so infectious. The world has lost a great husband, father, friend, and HERO!

I only had the pleasure of meeting Kim a few times over the past couple of years, but what an impression he leaves on people even after just a few moments. Kim will leave behind a legacy, and there is no doubt that his memory will be with us forever. Even in his final moments, Kim was teaching the world a lesson: always love and help one another.

Kim was one of the most genuine and caring individuals I have ever met. I had the pleasure of working with him during a new market entry and he did a phenomenal job leading the team. I’ll never forget how valued he made everyone feel. It was evident how much Kim cared personally about everyone he interacted with. His smile and positivity will be missed and never forgotten. My prayers and condolences to his family during this time.

Kim, you were an incredible friend. While we know God has a plan, it feels as though you were taken from us too soon. We are forever grateful for the time we got to spend with you and your wonderful family. Leigh Anne, Kayleigh and Colton you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Kim was a great encourager - he gave me guidance when my daughter was on her journey of looking at out of state colleges...he encouraged me to be open to where she felt the most comfortable and where she believes she can thrive!!
When my husband, Chris, met Kim at Bruce’s home, he shared how Kim made him feel known-by listening and asking him questions about his love of cooking. Kim had a way of doing this for so many!! We will miss you at Chick-fil-A and your legacy WILL live on through all of us. I’ll continue to pray for peace and comfort to you all during this time!!

Like so many have said, Kim could light up a room with his smile. He had such a servant spirit and loved his family. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May God give you peace and comfort during this time.

I have a hard time remembering the first time I met Kim, but I think that’s part of who he was. He wanted to go on a journey with everyone he met - one interaction leading right to the next. One of my favorite moments was when Kaleigh was applying to colleges. We got into a conversation about Northwestern, and Kim’s eyes lit up. Kaleigh was applying there and getting ready to interview. He was the most proud dad. I got to spend an hour with Kaleigh and could see the love of her family shining through. Kim made a point of thanking me for that hour almost every time I saw him. That would lead to a window for him to share about his family. He loved his crew, and his energy and joy was contagious. I’m a better person for knowing Kim and will miss his energy and selfless example of leadership.

Devastating unspeakable tragedy. Kim lost his life saving the lives of others, the ultimate sacrifice. He touched and positively impacted so many lives, and his memory and legacy will live on through his family, friends, and colleagues. Leigh Anne, Kayleigh and Colton - we send our deep, profound condolences and wish you healing and peace.

Kim was a wonderful and kind man he was my sons coach at Murphy Chandler.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time

My first days as an Interim Manager in CFA, Kim visited me as my first Business Consultant. I was a nervous wreck and he was kind and encouraging to me from the get go. He helped build a confidence in me. I have enjoyed the conversations with him over the past 12 years. He embodied the values that Truett would want from those he teamed up with. Kim you will be missed but I know we will see each other again.

I am deeply saddened to hear of Kim's passing. He was such a genuinely nice guy who always smiled and wanted to know how you and your family was doing. I'm better for having known Kim. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. Prayers for peace for Kim's family.

Kim was truly one of the genuine good people in this world. So friendly and not arrogant. Would clearly do anything for anybody. We lost a good one but will not be forgotten. Leigh Anne, Kayleigh and Colton you are in the Puffe's thoughts and prayers.

I am deeply saddened to hear about Kim's passing. He was a man of integrity, positivity, and grace. He was generous with his time and always made time for others. He was a man of principle who was greatly admired by others. He will be deeply missed.

Kim always lit up a room, perhaps the most positive person I have ever known. Kim was always smiling, kind and encouraging. I loved his passion to serve others, he truly demonstrated Truett’s “I am third” principle.  What a family man, his love for them came out in every conversation whether at work or at an Auburn tailgate. Kim is a hero and will be missed greatly. 

Kim always had a smile on his face. I don't remember an interaction with Kim where he wasn't smiling and full of joy. Even over the phone, you could feel the joy which exuded from his life. He was also tenacious in his support of Chick-fil-A Operators and always did his work from a place of care. He was an incredible coworker and friend and truly lead by example. I can't believe he is gone; I'm so grateful to have known Kim. My prayers have been with the McGrady family constantly over the past two days...may God grant you the peace only He can provide during this heartbreaking time.

Kim was always encouraging, upbeat, and caring. He truly cared for me and my family. I am a better Chick-fil-A Operator because of his integrity and ability to have honest challenging conversations. His faith shined through how he engaged with me and my team. Prayers for his family during this time.

I am so deeply saddened by Kim's passing. I was honored to work closely with Kim as part of a team that prepped from and rolled out CFA in Michigan in 2016-17. Aside from his obvious devotion to the CFA brand and its growth - and willingness to stretch himself to make it a success as spokesperson for dozens of media events - he really lit up when talking about his wife and children who clearly were his world.

In the midst of this Michigan restaurant rollout, my own husband died unexpectedly. Kim's sympathy and kindness extended to making the time to come to my husband's funeral and expressing his concern and care. I found that to be extraordinary but not surprising from Kim who continued to ask about myself and my children in the months and years to come. I am grateful to have known him, learned from him, and extend my prayers for his family who he adored.

Words cannot express my sorrow for the loss of such an incredible guy. I had the pleasure of working with Kim in the Northeast region and he had the heart of a Servant with the smile of a movie star. I am not surprised that he chose to save the lives of others before his own. He is the definition of a servant and a hero. My heart breaks for his loved ones as I know he will be missed dearly.

Kim was a dear friend with a great heart and a Hollywood smile. I had the privilege of being teammates with Kim for 4 years, and I gained a great friend in the process. I remember so many good times with Kim. I also remember being able to go to Kim for advice and counsel during a difficult setback. Kim had a heart of gold and was the type of person that you always walked away from feeling better than before. Leigh Anne, you were his partner in life, and I remember so many times Kim talking about great times he had with you. Kaleigh and Colton, I know your Dad is so proud of you both. He talked about you all the time, going to diving meets, baseball games, and Auburn games together. He loved you all dearly, and I can't imagine how much you miss him. Kim, I can't wait to see you again, brother.

Kim was an absolute amazing individual. His megawatt smile would bring comfort to all. Kim cared deeply for those that he served, and worked tirelessly to ensure that they had the tools needed to perform at their greatest. I remember many an afternoon visiting and catching up during our time in Oakmont. He will be deeply missed. Until we meet again friend.

I’m so sorry to hear about Dave Varner’s nephews passing doing what he does best helping others. RIP Kim

Hearing of Kim's heroic acts and putting others ahead of himself was typical for the man I knew. As an absolutely wonderful person, Kim showed me how to live the true CFA way and be a true steward to all around us. He will continue to be my role model and will truly be missed. 

I’m so sorry. He was always super nice with a great happy smile!

Won’t find a better person or nicer guy than Kim McGrady!!!! He truly will be missed and it was always a pleasure to be around him. No surprise he was helping others even during his passing and what an example of God’s purpose shining thru a man !!!!! Leigh Anne and family please know how sorry I am for your loss and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless ..... Andy Warner

Kim was an amazing man and friend. He was kind, selfless and fun. He cared deeply for his wife and kids an whenever they would call he would drop everything to talk with them. He was the husband and father I wish I could be and he had a heart for others that I can't even imagine. He always sought to understand and asked a lot of questions, because he truly cared. I got to spend a full week with him in the car and I laughed so hard and had incredibly deep conversations. I can't believe he is gone but I know without a shadow of doubt he is seated next to Jesus right now with that infectious smile loving others. He is a true hero and a courageous friend. I miss him so much already. 

Kim from the early days in OH, where we got to know you, to Building Champions retreat, you always took time to care for me and my family. You were always smiling and serving others. You will be missed! 

Kim was always smiling, always positive. I remember him at his standing desk at Oakmont and every time I’d walk down the hall he’d say “what’s up man?”, smiling and laughing like he always did. Kim was so positive, always making others around him feel better for having been with him. I never heard him say a negative word about anyone. Ever. That’s who he was and now he’s dancing in heaven with Jesus experiencing a joy we can only imagine.

I met Kim many years ago at Chick-fil-A Bowl Fanfest. He was the kind of man that was likable by all people. If you had a problem with Kim, you better check yourself. He brought his family. He was full of joy. He was the kind of man that was a good listener and had a zest for life and for serving others. He was a leader. We had competitions among the teams at Fanfest and every year Kim would tell me his team would win. He loved and encouraged others. His life was a light that glorified his Father in Heaven. Every year it seemed Kim’s team won. To his family, he marked my life as a pillar of humility, integrity, selfless and sacrifice. He inspired me. May the God of all comfort and the Spirit of all comfort draw close to you all during this time and may you sense His presence of comfort and peace.

It's so tragic, and yet not surprising that Kim died while saving the lives of others. Kim was a wonderful human being who made everyone around him better. We were fortunate to call him brother at Auburn and beyond.

I met Kim while serving Chick-fil-A as an Interim Manager. I knew immediately that he was special. He possessed such a genuine charisma that was so attractive and he was always an encouragement to me. 

I am praying for your family during this tragic loss of a husband, father, and hero.

Erik Smith

Kim was on early rotation with us at LA Fitness for years at 5:00 AM during the week for workouts when he was Intown. Even at 5:00AM he always had that smile and made working out seem so easy! He was genuine through and through. We enjoyed being in small group together when the kids were young- Kayleigh and Colton made him so proud! Our most sincere condolences to your sweet and amazing family.
With love, Troxel’s

Kim modeled the true definition of success, faithfulness. His life was well lived. I am so thankful for the opportunities we had to work together at Chick-fil-A. He was a man of God who loved and cared for his family deeply. My family grieves the loss of Kim and we are praying for Leigh Anne, Kaleigh and Colton. May God give you strength and comfort with each memory.

I am stunned and saddened to learn of Kim's passing. I loved my opportunities to work with Kim. He was always warm, kind, helpful and fun. He frequently spoke about his family and how deeply proud he was of them. Just a wonderful person. I am so sorry. Please know that my family and I grieve, pray, and honor Kim's memory with you.