David Paul Grimes

David Paul Grimes, 74, of Conway South Carolina, formerly of Jersey County Illinois, passed away Tuesday August 13 ,2024 at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center located in Bellingham, Washington with family by his side. He was born in Spring Arbor, Michigan to Reverend Don Hilburn Grimes and Ruth Ellen Glick on October 5, 1949. Dave graduated from Edwards County Highschool in Albion, IL in 1967. He then went on to graduate from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from SIUE. In 1970, Dave married his soulmate Martha Jean Jones in Dow, IL. Dave and Jean were married for 54 years. They were gifted with two beautiful children, Jacqueline J and David A. Family was the most important thing to him. Dave taught school in Jersey Community District 100 for 35 years. During his time at Grafton Grade School, he taught 6th grade. He also coached 4th -6th grade basketball, flag football, and track. He was named Head Teacher of Grafton. He concluded his teaching and coaching career at Illini Middle School in Jerseyville. During his summers Dave worked at Raging Rivers Water Park where he started as a house and ground manager and worked his way up to the Director of Operations. He also worked, alongside Jean’s dad, at Jone’s Peach Orchard. After retiring Dave became a U.S.A.T.F. collegiate Track and Field Official. Dave loved making memories with his family on their travels and adventures. Dave is survived by his wife, his daughter Jacqueline Jean, his brother Don C (Becky) Grimes, sisters Linda ( Joe) Collins, Kathie Grimes, Denise ( Harold ) Taylor, Angie Grimes, a brother-in-law Leroy C Jones, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son David A. Grimes, his parents Rev. Don and Ruth Grimes, and his father and mother in-law P. Leroy and Martha (Barnhorn) Jones. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Reverend Dr. John E. Sims will officiate. Burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

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David Paul Grimes

October 5, 1949 - August 13, 2024