Jim Ray Grimes

As a toddler, Jim moved to Los Angeles to live with his aunt and uncle, Lennie Bell Martin and David Henry Martin, who lovingly raised him as their own. In their hearts, he became the child they had always hoped for.

Jim attended Westchester High School, where he participated in a variety of extracurricular activities. He sang in the a cappella choir, took piano and guitar lessons, and played several sports, including ice hockey and football. Even as a young boy, his adventurous and energetic spirit was evident.

From an early age, it was clear that Jim was born to drive. One of David Martin’s favorite stories was about five-year-old Jim confidently steering a tractor through the countryside—foretelling the career that would bring him so much joy. Over the years, Jim held many driving-related positions. He worked with LAUSD as a school bus driver and supervisor, operated lift vehicles at the docks, and even test-drove trucks to evaluate towing capacity and distance. Among his favorite roles was owning his own trucking business, transporting up to five cars at a time across California. Most recently, Jim drove a double-length shuttle bus at LAX, skillfully maneuvering between planes on the tarmac to transport travelers.

Jim’s zest for life extended well beyond his work. He had a passion for physical activity and the outdoors. He made lifelong friends playing beach volleyball, and enjoyed tennis, taekwondo, and other recreational sports. Jim made a brief appearance for the LA Stallions in semi-pro football and won the championship the year he played. He also had a deep love for classic cars—particularly his restored 1967 Datsun, which he proudly showed and drove along the California coast. Sailing brought him immense happiness, especially when he could share the experience with friends aboard his sailboat.

Jim was a member of Galilee Baptist Church in Lancaster and maintained strong ties with his family throughout his life. Childhood summers spent with his siblings in Lancaster were among his most cherished memories. He was a devoted Godfather to Bryzytte, a role he took seriously and lovingly embraced. Whenever he visited town, Jim made it a priority to have dinner with his Grandmother Jones—always after visiting his mother first.

From 1982 to 1984, Jim was married to Ketrin D. Grady (now Ketrin D. Earwood). Together, they welcomed their daughter, Erin Angela Grimes—his only child, and the light of his life.

Jim now joins in Heaven his beloved parents of birth and adoption, and his siblings Vanessa L. Ashford-Wiley, Derrick Fitzgerald Grimes, and Patricia Grimes-Davis. He leaves behind his daughter Erin; his siblings Bettye C. Grimes-Dean, Rena M. Thomas-Bailey, Leonard Grimes, Clifford Grimes, Cynthia Grimes, Pamela L. Nava, Flame McFerrin, Alberta M. Scates, and Rosalynd E. Scates; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Jim will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his love for the open road and the sea, and his deep devotion to family and friends. His presence, laughter, and adventurous soul will be missed beyond measure.