Allen Ray Grimes, Sr. was born on January 21, 1947 in Memphis, TN to the late LeRoy and Mary E. Grimes.

Ray (as he was affectingly called) accepted Christ as his Lord & Savior at Antioch M.B. Church at an early age. After graduating from Manassas High School in 1965, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era as a Communications Specialist. After being honorably discharged, he worked at Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. He also attended State Technical Institute where he received an Associate’s Degree in Industrial Technology. He worked at the U.S. Postal Service Bulk Mail Center until his retirement. During her 67 years, he touched many lives as he embraced those in need and supported them.  His life was a true testimony of love, compassion, dedication and concern for others. Whatever Ray could do to help someone else, he would do.

Ray lived an active and fulfilling life. He loved his family dearly. He cared much for his brothers and sisters, but his pride and joy was his children and grandchildren. He loved being a grandfather and playing with his grandchildren. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and season ticket holder of the Memphis Grizzlies. He was a member of the bowling league, a zealous photographer of many events, a fervent card player, and most passionately a traveler.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife of Marie and his seven children: four sons -Gawain Grimes of Murfreesboro, TN; Allen R. Grimes, Jr. (Debra) of Laurel, MD; Aaron “Chris” Grimes (Kim) of Redford, MI; and Marsalis Woods (Brittany) of Memphis, TN; three daughters – Monica Swauncy, Yolanda Jackson (Alvin) and Yashika Nelson all of Memphis, TN. Five brothers – Melvin Grimes of California, Howard Grimes, Edward Grimes and Michael Grimes of Memphis, TN and Carl Grimes who preceded him in death. Three sisters – Gwendolyn Allen of Michigan, Mary Flagg and LaJan Grimes of Memphis, TN. Fifteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

His memories will last forever as he will definitely be missed! In his words “I’ll be alright”.