James Staley Grimes

The City of Frederick mourns the passing of former Mayor Jim Grimes and extends heartfelt condolences to his wife, Elsie, the rest of his family, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his distinguished career in public service and business. His leadership and dedication to Frederick will not be forgotten.

James Staley Grimes, 85, passed from this life on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at his home with his wife by his side. He was the son of the late Ira Staley and Wilma Burrier Grimes. He was the brother of the late John G. Grimes

Born in Lewistown, Maryland in 1939, Jim Grimes graduated from Frederick High School before serving in the U.S. Army. A businessman, he founded Grimes Truck Center in 1961 and went on to manage auto, truck, and farm machinery repairs from 1967-2006. His commitment to Frederick was evident in his civic involvement, serving as Mayor of the City of Frederick from 1994 to 2002. During his time as Mayor, Mr. Grimes championed the expansion of Frederick Municipal Airport, as an economic driver for the City, and Monocacy Boulevard for its transportation benefits and economic development potential to the community. He was also a member of the Board of Alderman, the city’s Planning Commission, and a Judge of the Orphans' Court for Frederick County.

In addition to his public service, Mayor Grimes served on the boards of Frederick Memorial Hospital, Frederick County National Bank, Hood College, and other notable community organizations. A man deeply connected to Frederick’s agricultural roots, he served as President of the Great Frederick Fair’s Board of Directors and was a founding member and first president of the Lewistown Volunteer Fire Department.

Mayor Grimes' contributions to Frederick’s civic and business communities earned him numerous accolades, including the Good Samaritan of the Year from Frederick Memorial Hospital in 2013 and the Dealer of the Year Award from Boss Hoss Motorcycles in 2008. 

A member of Lewistown United Methodist Church and the Lions Club of Frederick, Mayor Grimes embodied a life of service and dedication, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations. (posted November 9, 2024 cityoffrederickmd.gov)

Along with his many accomplishments in life, Jim was also a very dedicated family man. In addition to his wife, Elsie, he will be missed by his brothers and sisters, Robert D. Grimes and his wife, Carolyn Grimes, Ruthie F. Mckinny, Alverda Mae Roach and Donald Roach. He will also be remembered by a very special grandchild, Paityn McKinley Rodgers; stepson, Justin T. Rodgers and his wife, Laura Rodgers; and many nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick. 

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Stauffer Funeral Home in Frederick. Rev. Tim May and Pastor Mark Claiborne will officiate. Entombment will be at Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Frederick. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be offered to Frederick Health Hospice, Lewistown Volunteer Fire Department, or to Lewistown United Methodist Church. 

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.