Robert Grady Kimsey

Founder of the Fine Arts Gallery at Seminole Community College (now Seminole State College) and an art professor there for 20 years, Grady was known throughout Central Florida and farther afield as a master artist, who created mystical sculptures, paintings, ceramics and collages until the final months of his life. His mixed-media sculpture Seekers and Keepers is part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection, and his work can be seen in universities and public spaces throughout the South and in many private homes. A 2016 exhibit at Crealde School of Art designated him as an Art Legend of Orange County.

Robert Grady Kimsey (he never used his first name) was born June 26, 1928, in Knoxville, TN, the son of Joseph Pinkney Kimsey Sr., the police chief of Knoxville, and his wife Viola Mae (Guinn). Grady was the first student in and one of the first graduates of the new School of Art at the University of Tennessee. After 10 years as art director of a Knoxville television station, Grady moved to Florida with his wife of 66 years Sue, and sons Grant and Reed. He taught in the public school system, earned a master’s in education at Rollins College and then began teaching at Seminole, where he served as mentor to generations of Seminole art students.

Grady was predeceased by his wife Sue and their son Reed. His survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Grant and Mary Kimsey of Rockledge, FL, and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution is suggested in Grady’s name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.

Grady lives on through his students and his art.