Edwin “Gunner” Grimsley

Born on July 20, 1948, in Fort Worth, Texas, Edwin arrived just minutes after his twin brother Edward, who preceded him in death on October 10, 1995. Raised by his parents, E.V. “Skeet” Grimsley and Wanda Jane Grimsley, Edwin grew up working alongside his brothers on their grandparents, Granny and Guy's, farm, where he developed the work ethic, resilience, and integrity that would define his life.

A proud graduate of Polytechnic High School in 1966, Edwin entered the Armed Forces in 1968 and joined the United States Navy in 1972. Over the next three decades, he forged an extraordinary career, beginning as an enlisted Flight Engineer and culminating in his promotion to Chief Warrant Officer (CWO4) before retiring in 2001. His leadership journey included promotions to Chief Petty Officer in 1978, Senior Chief in 1982, selection for Master Chief in 1986, and commission as a Chief Warrant Officer in 1988.

Gunner served aboard numerous historic aircraft carriers, including the USS Forrestal, USS John F. Kennedy, USS Midway, USS Coral Sea, USS America, USS Nimitz, and USS Underwood. He was stationed at multiple commands across the globe, amassing over 13,860 flight hours and earning a reputation for excellence, discipline, and mentorship. He was lovingly known among his peers as “Gunner” or “Dallas.”

Edwin’s military decorations reflect his extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to duty. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, the Air Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with “V” device and two gold stars, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with four gold stars. He also received the Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals, the Navy Unit and Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and multiple marksmanship expert awards. These honors only hint at the valor, sacrifice, and professionalism he demonstrated throughout his service. He also completed advanced military education at the Senior Enlisted Academy and earned degrees from Mohegan Community College and the University of Almeda, finishing his master’s degree in 2007.

In addition to his military achievements, Edwin was a dedicated Freemason. He began his Masonic journey while stationed in Canada in Argus Lodge No. 133, where he was initiated as an Entered Apprentice, passed to the degree of Fellow Craft, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in 1979. He served as Worshipful Master of the John J. Kestly/George Washington Lodge No. 60/69 in Rota, Spain, in 1987, where he led with the same integrity, mentorship, and quiet strength that marked every chapter of his life.

After retirement, Edwin continued to serve his country as a civilian, working for Sabre Systems Inc. as an Authorized Government Technical Representative supporting critical aircraft modification programs.

But Edwin’s proudest titles were those of husband and father. He treasured the experience of becoming a father for the first time with the birth of his daughter, Lesia. While serving in the Navy, he met the love of his life, Ginnette. Together, they shared 52 years—48 of them as husband and wife—filled with love, adventure, joy, and unwavering devotion. He was a loving and deeply devoted father to their daughter, Robyn-Anna, and a proud family man who cherished his parents, siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Edwin had a deep love for people and an incredible ability to connect with everyone he met. He was the kind of man who helped anyone in need, lent a hand to a neighbor, or sat for hours sharing stories and laughter. He was an avid fisherman who found peace and joy on the water—a passion that began in childhood alongside his father and brothers, and continued throughout his life as he competed in bass tournaments and spent treasured time with his younger brother, James, at their lake lots on Lake Fork. James preceded him in death on February 10, 2022.

Edwin was preceded in death by his parents, Skeet and Wanda Jane; his twin brother, Edward; and his brother, James. He is survived by his loving wife, Ginnette; their daughter, Robyn-Anna; his daughter, Lesia Whipps; his sister, Janie Grimsley-Agosti; and a large extended family of beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Edwin Grimsley lived a life of honor, courage, and boundless generosity. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.