James David Grimes

James David Grimes was born on November 13, 1949, and passed away on March 11, 2025.

James was a man of action and presence. He wasn’t one to shy away from speaking his mind or showing his opinions. He had a way of making his mark in any room he entered, and his strength of character was evident in everything he did. His love for his family was clear in the way he cared for and provided for them, whether it was through a gesture, a word of advice, or simply by being there when they needed him.

James had a deep love for his pastimes. He enjoyed classic rock music and cherished the escape it provided. He also had a special love for old westerns, particularly the films of John Wayne, which were a big part of his life. James was passionate about Harley-Davidsons and had a special place in his heart for Oklahoma State University, where his pride for his alma mater ran deep.

James was a civil service retiree with 23 years of Federal service at Tinker Air Force Base. Over half his career was spent as a cost analyst where he formed strong bonds and met best friend, TJ King.

James was preceded in death by his father Louie, his mother Elaine, and his sister Cynthia Lynn Bocock. These relationships and losses shaped him in ways we can never fully understand. He was incredibly close to his father, Louie, who instilled in him his strength of character and sense of integrity.

James and his wife Sue were married for 38 years. Together, they raised two daughters and were a constant presence in their lives. James welcomed his sons-in-law, Zack and Adrian, with open arms and was a proud father-in-law to them both.

James was also a grandfather to eight grandchildren: Tyler, Ryan, Hunter, and Kayden, children of his daughter Tabitha and her husband Zack; Isabella, Samuel, Sofia, and Emma, children of his daughter Ashley and her husband Adrian. He was also a great-grandfather to Mila, the daughter of Tyler and granddaughter of Tabitha and Zack. The love he had for his grandchildren and great-granddaughter was his own way of leaving a lasting imprint on the generations that followed.

James was a man of steady presence, strength, and pride in his family. We’ll remember him not just for his love of music, motorcycles, old westerns, and his pride for Oklahoma State University, but for the way he cared for those he loved in his own way. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and loyalty.

As we say goodbye, let’s honor his memory by embracing the lessons he taught us: resilience, perseverance, and caring in the ways that matter most.