Frank Patrick “Pat” Grimes, Sr. was born in Houma, Louisiana on March 16, 1938 to Bert David Grimes and Hassle Mae Edwards. As a child, his father did construction work and they relocated often. At 5 years of age, his parent’s marriage ended, and he and his mom settled in Opelousas, LA where she worked as a telephone operator and store manager. Later, his mother became ill with rheumatic fever, and Pat went to live with his dad and stepmother in Bunkie, LA. He started high school at Menard Memorial High School as a full time boarder, where he graduated in 1956. After graduation he immediately joined his father in construction work building bridges across Louisiana and Texas. That same year, Pat met his true love, Margaret Pearl Wilson, and they began dating in August. They were married the following April of 1957, and moved to Texas where Pat continued highway construction work on Louisiana Interstate 10.
Pat and Margaret had three children from their union, a daughter, Renae Grimes-Avery; son, Frank P.”Bubba” Grimes, Jr.; and son Byron David Grimes. After the children came along, Pat built their first home himself where the couple settled in Pineville, LA.
Over the years, Pat worked at several jobs earning his living as a Bread man, Grocery Salesman, Lumber Salesman and finally a business owner of a convenience store. His trades knowledge and hard work led to his final career as a Home Contractor and Commercial Builder. He exercised his talents to build more stores and businesses for his son, Bubba and his business partner, Gary Barth.
Pat was a devoted father, husband and friend. He worked hard throughout his life and was always ready to help anyone who needed him. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bert Grimes; mother, Hassle Berry; step mother, Meril Crawley; youngest son, Byron, and son-in-law, Jim Avery, and two brothers-in-law, Jerry Wilson and Rivers Wilson.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 69 years (April 1st), Margaret Wilson Grimes; daughter, J. Renae; son, Frank P. “Bubba”, Jr. (Patty); grandson, Daniel Grimes (Roan), Heath Grimes (Amy), and granddaughters, Heather Revilla and Courtney Mott (Dustin); and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Berdette Griffin (John); brother, Floyd Grimes (Anita) and sister-in-law, Brenda Bonner; in addition to many longtime friends and exceptional neighbors.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers please honor Pat’s memory with your contribution to St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 2627 Horseshoe Dr., Alexandria, LA. 71301 or the charitable organization of your choice.