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John Grimsley Obituary

JOHN GLENN GRIMSLEY, age 45, loving husband, proud father, loyal friend, and dedicated NFL player, died on February 6, 2008, at his home in Missouri City, TX. John played football for the University of Kentucky and spent seven seasons with the Houston Oilers. John moved on to play with the Miami Dolphins, where he made the Pro Bowl in 1988 and was All Pro in 1989, before retiring from the NFL in 1993. John's kinship and respect for his teammates was revered by all who knew him. John had a passion for the outdoors, and in his retirement he started and worked for businesses that allowed him to do the things he loved; spend time with his family, hunt, and fish. John was a kind hearted, caring man, with an incredible sense of humor and infectious laugh. His smile was inviting and he never met a person that he didn't call a friend. John is survived by his loving wife of twenty-four years, Virginia; sons, John Jr. and Eric, of whom he was proud and who reflect his character and principles; parents, Willard and Glenda; sisters, Kim (Baldwin), Jolene (Neilson), and Kristen; brothers, Will, Ed, Doug, and Dan; Virginia's parents, Fortunato and Rosa Businelli; sister-in-law, Luciana; and many other loving relatives, close friends, and colleagues, who loved him dearly. Visitation: Monday, February 11, 2008, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Earthman Southwest Chapel, 12555 South Kirkwood, Stafford, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, February 12, 2008, 11:00 AM, St. Theresa Catholic Church, 115 Seventh St., Sugar Land. A reception will follow the service in the Parish Hall. Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Akiu, Fred Howard, Dennis Pasentine, Dennis Pasentine, Jr., Jay Pennison, Lou Poutous, Scott Reynolds, and David Rodriguez. John's active interest and support of special projects was limitless. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John's honor to Impact A Hero, 8044 Montgomery Road, Suite 700, Cincinnati, Ohio 45236, or visit www.impactahero.com.

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Published by Houston Chronicle on Feb. 10, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for John Grimsley

Sponsored by Bob Simpson, friend from UK.

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Bob Simpson

May 7, 2012

Virginia , I am so sorry to hear about John. He was one of the finest individuals that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I spent a lot of time with John and Kevin McLelland during our years at UK. I was a huge fan throughout his career and often wondered how he was doing in retirement. I am mortified to tell you that I just learned of his death today while watching a report on Jim McMahon and Dave Duerson today on ESPN. I feel Ike such a fool that I didn't even know. I want you Johnny and Eric to know that you will always be in my prayers. John was an amazing man and I will never forget him.

V J E Grimsley

February 25, 2009

This is your second birthday away from us and it's not any easier than the first. We know you are in a better place but our selfish hearts still wish you were here. Hope you are looking down as we send up our undying love to you. Happy Birthday to you in heaven from the three of us who adored you most! OXOXOX

Paula Stanley

February 9, 2009

I cannot believe it has been a year. Seems like yesterday. At least he is in a safer place now, along with your dad and my mom and dad and many other special people. I also think its great that the donation of his brain may help other families in the future cope with such losses.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys always.

Persephone Hall

February 8, 2009

Virginia, Johnny & Eric,

A year later, you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I know your love for John has carried you thorugh this year and will continue to give you strength to press on...

I love you!
Persephone

Jane (Lux) Gear

February 6, 2009

Virginia - Thinking of you and your boys. Your notes make me cry. You loved him dearly that is clear. God bless you and keep you until you meet again.

m e

February 5, 2009

Cannot believe it's been a year. We miss you every single day. The void you left will never be filled. Thanks for the many wonderful memories we now hang on to. It's just not the same here without you! You were the BEST! Forever in our hearts!!

Jennifer Trammell

November 22, 2008

VA,
I just wanted to let you know that there is not a day that goes by that i dont think of you! I hope you are doing good.

Love,
Jennifer T.

V G

August 11, 2008

Nothing will ever be the same. My broken heart is overwhelmed with sorrow. You were my light & strength. I am so lost without you.

Brett Kolaja

August 7, 2008

John,

Six months ago yesterday you left our lives. Your passing has served as a reminder to me how precious and short life really is. I truly am sorry that we didn't get to do some of things we talked about doing. I had hoped to make it to Alaska with you someday. We shared some great times together and with our families. You surely will be missed. George Strait summed it up pretty well with his song "See you on the other side" except in the song he sings "If I make it". I can tell you there will be NO "If" with a question mark for me. I will see you WHEN I make it". Your buddy. Brett

V Grimsley

June 15, 2008

Father to my children
Inspiration to my world
Gift to my life!
We miss you so very much. Our hearts will never be the same. You were THE BEST. Happy Father's day to you in heaven. You were the love of my life and now you are the man in my dreams. Forever yours, V

Leslie (Lloyd) Tuohy

February 28, 2008

Dear Virginia and Family,
I am so terribly sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a remarkable human being. The kind of person that leaves a mark on your soul, even after all of these years. It is a sincere loss to all who ever knew and was touched by him. Again, I am deeply sorry for the enormous loss you are enduring. Please know that you and your family are in the thoughts of countless people throughout this country who were fortunate enough to cross paths with such a wonderful person.

Stacy (Mitchell) Reid

February 27, 2008

Virgina, John, Eric & the whole Grimsley family. Our hearts and prayers go out to each and every one of you at this very difficult time. Just know that he was a very good person and a friend to all.

Roger Gay

February 26, 2008

My sympathy and prayers for John's family. I had the pleasure of growing up with John. He was a good friend. Indeed, one of the good ones, certainly to be missed.

Lisa Reese-Crislip

February 26, 2008

How sad for Wiz and family. As one of our classmates put it, "John was one of the good guys". Many fond memories from high school. Thoughts and prayers to his wife and children, too.

Joan Kirby

February 20, 2008

Virginia,I've thought of you and your sons often these past days since Orlando,and will continue to send prayers for you.

Anna Wise

February 19, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about John. I have fond memories of the family and the kids playing together. I would again like to thank Wiz for paying his respects to Bob. That meant alot to me and the family. My grandson C.J. cherishes the football card of John you gave him from your wallet. Sending prayers to help you through a difficult time. Love Ann

Rodney Wise

February 19, 2008

I was saddened to hear about an old friend. I can remember going to my grandmothers house which neighbored the Grimsley's home in Canton, OH. That is how I met John and his family. We would fish and throw around the football now and then. We had a lot of fun! Those are memories I will cherish. Your Pal, Rodney

The Moser Family

February 15, 2008

We are so sorry for your loss. You and your boys are in our thoughts and prayers.

Pat Sparks

February 14, 2008

Virginia, John and Eric,

Sincerest empathy for your loss.

May John's Bulldog spirit live on with you and see you through your lives.

The Sparks Family

Arqulia Bowers

February 13, 2008

Virginia,
My prayers are with you and your boys.I understand the pain and sorrow your family is going through.John was a special man and will be greatly missed.

Arqulia(Jackson)Bowers

Walt Davis

February 13, 2008

I can say I went to St pauls in canton with Ed and John was a year older but went to Mckinley with them to. I loved being a bulldog and I know how the family loved it to. I saw Ed at a game a while back and I asked how John was and he was proud and I know the whole family and the whole town is proud of John. I know we all try to do are best on this earth and know we all want to go into Gods loveing hands. I know John will be missed on this earth but he will always be here in our hearts and mind. John had a smile and I say a smile brings one so think about that and I know we are all smiling and I thank God for the gift of John and that is what it is a gift of his love and his spirit and that will never be gone God bless to you all and I am thankful for the gift and yes I am smiling lots of love to you all Walt Davis

Jane (Lux) Gear

February 13, 2008

Virginia, John and Eric - Sadness overwhelms with the news of this tragedy. No words can express how you must be feeling at this time. Know the Lord Jesus is watching over you all and has John now with him. His grace be upon you all. With fond memories of years past in Canton, Ohio, I shall always remember the quiet and confident, kind and caring man that was John.
With Sympathy

Walter Hanson

February 12, 2008

My thoughts and prayers to the entire family during these difficult times. I have known John for almost 10 years now through our mutual involvement with the CCA and always enjoyed his company and the occasional fishing trip. He will be truly missed.

Carol Archer

February 12, 2008

Dear Grimsley Family,

We are so sorry for your loss and will miss John. Have faith and know that you will all be together again.

"Aunt" Carol

Bonnie Robbins

February 12, 2008

Virginia,
You are my dear, sweet friend and I love you very much. Seeing you so sad breaks my heart, I wish I could take away some of your pain. Just remember, you don't have to say goodbye to John, his kind, gentle, loving spirit will remain with you and help you walk through the rest of your life here. You will see him again one day. You and the boys are continuously in my thoughts and prayers.
Love, Bonnie

Jen Trammell

February 12, 2008

Virginia, Johnny, and Eric,
We love you and you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jen Trammell and Charlie Macedo.

Paula Stanley (fka Cotyk)

February 12, 2008

Virginia, John, Eric and the entire Grimsley Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I grew up with Virginia and John like many of you. Virginia was a great neighbor to me when she lived in Canton and that is how I met John years ago. I love you all, including all the Businelli's. I remember all the good times with John and Virginia. I remember the good times in Canton and visiting with them in Texas. The great cookouts, Astro's game, John's great football and business career. He was a great guy!!!!. My best to Virginia and the entire family.

JANE JENNINGS-HUFF

February 12, 2008

VIRGINIA AND FAMILY,
I MET YOUR MOM AND DAD IN KENTUCKY.I WORKED WITH VIRGINIA @ GOLD CIRCLE. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND THE FAMILY.MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR BOYS.TAKE CARE.

Tom Grimsley

February 12, 2008

My deepest sympathy for the entire family. John was a very special guy, and I will always remember his generosity for all of the Houston Oilers/Miami Dolphins games I was able to attend to watch my cousin play. I was very proud of him. He will be greatly missed by all.....

Robyn Snyder

February 12, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. I met John several times at an outting and he was always very kind. He will be truly missed by all.

Donna Jaworski

February 12, 2008

I just had the wonderful experience of meeting John and spending time with him in Phoenix. What a great heart he had. My prayers and thoughts are with your family during this very difficult time. May God bless you with strength to overcome this terrible tragedy.

The Balsley Family

February 12, 2008

Dear Virginia,
My daughter Nicole had so many good times with you & your husband at Bravo's with the Rodriguez family every Friday night for years. Your pictures have been on her cell phone to show me the fun you all had together. Our heart goes out to you and your family at this time and always.

Lovingly,
Greg, Sara, Nicole & Olivia

Travis Kolaja

February 12, 2008

John Grimsley will be missed dearly by everyone whose life he touched. I was fortunate enough to know him for many years, and I know anyone who knew him was proud to call him their friend. I will remember all the times growing up with him coaching our little league baseball teams, spending the night at the house, hanging out at the ranch, and the New Year's Eve parties everyone looked forward to each year. He was like a second father to me and he treated me like a son. He was the type of man you could come to if you needed anything and he would welcome you with open arms.

I know you will be keeping an eye on us with the man upstairs, and you will always live on in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Todd and Margo Lapinski

February 11, 2008

From family members of the Howards: We are very saddened to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Maria Tersigni

February 11, 2008

Dear Grimsley Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all...may they lift you up and give you strength.
God Bless you all.
Maria Tersigni-Lowe

Julie Kerr

February 11, 2008

My deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the Grimsley family and close friends. I would see John once a year at a group outing and always thought what a really nice guy and how fun it was to be around him. As I have read in the other entries he had that affect on many. May wonderful memories of John get you through this difficult time.

Rex ( Greg's Dad) Goodman

February 11, 2008

John & Eric:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You father has left this world too soon, much as my father did when I was a young man. John had great passion in the things he did and even more in watching his sons develope into young men. Your Fathers' vision and dreams will be accomplished through your eyes and hands.

Dan Dyer

February 11, 2008

Seems like only a few years ago John and I were growing up in Canton. John will be missed by all who knew him.
I believe all of us are better people having known John and his personality of loving life and caring to share a laugh or two with him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family and circle of friends who will never forget him.

smoke monnot

February 11, 2008

thanks for all the good times!
thoughts & prayers to Virginia and the boys.

Janet Reese (Chevron)

February 11, 2008

I only met John 3 years ago. But I saw him to be a very kind and caring man. My prayers are with his family during this extremely sad time.

Glenn Amerson

February 11, 2008

I played ball with John at UK, not a better all around guy ever put on the the Blue jersey. We all mourn your loss and will remember the family in our prayers. God Bless

Cathy Dailey

February 11, 2008

Virginia, John & Eric,
My family and I are deeply saddened by the loss of a wonderful husband, father and coach to my son Joshua. He was such encouragement to Josh and our family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.
Cathy, Brandy and Joshua Dailey

Roland Johnson II

February 10, 2008

Virginia and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all through this very difficult time. Virginia I have always thought of you as family and feel very close to you and the Grimsley's while growing up in Canton. We will keep you all in our prayers.

william saunders

February 10, 2008

To the Grimsley Family:

I will truly miss John. For years we would always talk about Ohio and our families. It was always a pleasure to see him. He was so kind to me and my son Brian. John was just a nice guy. My sympathy to you.

William Saunders

John & Me at our 20th high school reunion

Persephone Hall

February 10, 2008

Virginia, Johnny and Eric,
My love and prayers are with you. As a fellow McKinley Bulldog, class of '80, I have great memories of watching John on the field of Fawcett stadium. Mostly, I knew John as a friend. Thank God for the impact he had all over the world. I know that together, you will continue to spread his love and passion for life to all.
I am here when and if you need me.

Love, Persephone

Roland Duncan

February 10, 2008

Though I haven't seen John in recent years, I have always remembered him as a fine man and will continue to do so.

Jolene Yarnell

February 10, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Amanda & Drew Kayes

February 10, 2008

Words cannot begin to express how sorry we are for your loss. Although we did not know John personally, we felt as though we had because of all the wonderful things we have heard about him. Virginia, you and the boys are in our thoughts and prayers! We love you!

William Devlin

February 10, 2008

God Bless you John. My father always loved you and the person you were. You were a man who loved life and enjoyed all of it. My prayers are for you and your family.

William Devlin

Carrie Hitchcock

February 10, 2008

There is an empty feeling in our hearts right now as we realize there won't be any more good times spent with John. At the same time we are cherishing the times we did have with him and recalling his generous spirit and heart warming smile. John had a knack for making you feel like a friend from the very first time you met. He will most definitely be missed by so many! Our thoughts and prayers are with Virginia, Johnny, Eric and all those who loved John.
With Love,
The Bob Hitchcock Family

Glenda Stafford

February 10, 2008

There are no words that we can say, only this scripture: Phil 1:3-6. We will see you on the other side.

Richard & Helen Fach

February 10, 2008

Our Sincerest Sympathies to the Grimsley Family.
Richard & Helen Fach
Leesburg, Florida

Becky Howard

February 10, 2008

John was truly a hero to my daughter, Melissa Ramsey. She was a Cystic Fibrosis patient at Texas Children's Hospital when John played for the Oilers. She passed away in 1991 at the age of 10 years old. Through his many good deeds, he took the time to take Melissa to see the New Kids on the Block. He was so kind and caring and did so many wonderful things for people. May God be with his family during this time. You are be in my thoughts and prayers.

Becky Howard

Cindy Dugger Hendricks

February 10, 2008

Virginia, John & Eric ~ Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We think of all of you as family not only when with the Oilers but outside of the Oilers as well and we always will.

Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results

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