James Patrick Grimes

The best man in the world, Jim Grimes, passed away Friday. He moved to Asheville 15 years ago after living in Florida, Connecticut, and California, to be close to his grandsons. Born and raised in the Bronx, he moved to Hartford as a teenager and then enlisted in the Navy, later joining the California Highway Patrol, and then Pratt and Whitney/United Technologies. More importantly, he was wise, funny, and kind, always the dad throwing a ball outside or taking kids to Chuck E. Cheese. His grandsons Matteo and Vance Tarantino were able to have him here for their whole childhoods. He shared his love of movies with Matteo and sports with Vance. His daughter Sandy Tarantino had total support from him her whole life. With his son-in-law Jeff Tarantino, he watched years of New York Giants football games, including a rare victory this past Sunday.

Jim met the love of his life, Judy Grimes, after spotting her fantastic legs in a G. Fox in 1965. They had a beautiful 50 year marriage. She was his tireless caregiver as Parkinson’s took his strength from him.

Waiting for him on the other side were his mother, Ellen Grimes, who flew in a helicopter over Niagara Falls with him and had the greatest laugh, and the best brother in the world, John Grimes, his partner in many adventures. He is survived by Jane Kelly, the older sister he adored, and his sisters-in-law Sylvia Hughes and Carol Kinney-Grimes who were treasures in his life. He loved all his nieces and nephews and was so proud of their success. He had many friends including Dick Setterlund, Mike Percival, the late Ralph Sanchez, Bob Baldoni, Bruce Lavery and the entire (not so) Young (anymore) Catholic Adults crew.

Judy is planning a celebration of life in the spring. In the meantime, you may honor Jim by watching The Sopranos, listening to Victory at Sea, or sharing a bowl of popcorn with people you love.