Charles Grimes

Melbourne, FL

Charles Raymond Grimes, 81, of Melbourne, FL, departed this life peacefully at home on July 19, 2012. His devoted family was by his side.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Dorothy, sons Scott and Wayne Grimes, daughter Kimberly Grimes, and one precious grandson, Nicholas Grimes. "Ray" is also survived by brother Bill Grimes(Mary), Bob Grimes(Mae), sisters Dorothy Jean Hamilton, Norma Lee Melanson, Mary Ellen Grimes, and sister in law Judy Labriola(John). He is preceded in death by his younger brother, Jack Grymes.

Born July 26, 1930 in Canonsburg, PA to William Grimes and Lola Callwell, Ray grew up in Erwin, TN. A talented athlete, he was forced to forego a football scholarship due to a motorcycle accident, but proudly served in the USAF following high school. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in Finance from East Tennessee State College. Moving to Eau Gallie, FL in 1959, Ray was employed for over 30 years at PAFB, where he worked for several corporations including RCA, Pan-Am, and CSR. He was an amazing bowler, enjoyed playing golf, tinkering with cars, woodworking, and served on the Board of Directors for Eau Gallie Little League Baseball for several years.

A true family man, Ray enjoyed the simpler things in life: spending time with loved ones, having cook-outs, and telling great stories to anyone who would listen. He was a loyal husband, epitomizing the vow "til death do us part", and his children's lives will forever be enriched by his examples of honor and integrity. He will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be Monday, July 23, 2012 from 5-7pm at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 11:30am Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at Florida Memorial Gardens, US1, Rockledge, FL.