Robert Cooper Grier (Albany Law Journal)

Before speaking of the close of Judge Grier’s official career, it is proper to say more of his private character. His support of his mother and ten brothers and sister, to which we have already referred, when he was yet young in the law, was an act which richly merited the success he subsequently enjoyed, and should win for his memory the respect of everyone. It was an undertaking that might have discouraged a young man of less determined character and ability, though equally liberal and affectionate at heart. The support of eleven persons and the liberal education of them was a gigantic work for a young man left in poverty and just entering upon the practice of his profession. But young Grier assumed his burden, and carried it with an upright form and cheerful front, overcoming all difficulties. His brothers were well and liberally educated and settled in business or professions. His sisters lived with him till they were married and his mother (who was the daughter of the Rev. Robert Cooper, of Cumberland county) until she died. As a son and father, as well as in all subsequently formed domestic relations, his private life was distinguished by the kindest and tenderest affections, and no man was more beloved by his family and friends.