Obituary of james robert grimes, sr.

Jim Grimes, Sr., passed away at home in Pensacola, Florida, on February 7, 2023, with his family by his side. Jim was born in Pensacola on March 5, 1943. He graduated from Escambia High School in 1961 and, after graduation, he proudly served his country for six years in the Army National Guard. Jim started his professional career at WEAR TV 3 in the delivery department and eventually climbed the corporate ladder to become General manager. He then managed television stations in several markets such as Rockford, Illinois, Harrisonburg, Virginia, and El Paso, Texas, before returning home in January 2000 to open Southern Media, Inc., an advertising and marketing firm. Under his leadership, Southern Media grew to be one of the most respected advertising agencies on the Gulf Coast. Jim retired from the agency business in January of 2017. Jim married the love of his life, Nina, in August of 1962, and remained married to her until he passed—just over 60 years. Jim had many hobbies in his lifetime, but his two main passions were playing guitar and stock car racing. Jim was an accomplished guitarist and played from early childhood until he physically could not play anymore. He was very proud of the fact that he helped start the Snowball Derby and loved going to Five Flags Speedway at every opportunity he had. Among his other hobbies were fishing, motorcycle riding, and flying airplanes. His many hobbies allowed him to live life to the fullest in his personal and professional life. Jim was proceeded in death by his father Richard P. Grimes, mother Alma Irene Grimes, brother Richard P. Grimes, Jr., and sisters Gloria Wyse (Jack) and Jewell Partridge (Joe). He is survived by his son Jim Grimes, Jr. (Tina) of Pensacola, and his daughter Robin Riebling (Ron) of Good Hope, Illinois, two step grandchildren, five step great grandchildren, along with beloved in-laws and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to Schnauzer Love Rescue at schluv4u2@bellsouth.net. Arrangements : Family Funeral and Cremation 5627 N. Davis Hwy. Pensacola, Florida Tuesday, February 14, 2023 Visitation 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Service 2 p.m. Burial to follow at Pensacola Memorial Gardens