Benjamin Don Grimes

Benjamin Don Grimes, age 87, of Carterville, passed peacefully at 10:16 PM on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at Carbondale Memorial Hospital.
He was born Saturday, April 24, 1937, in Herrin, a son of Henry Young and Syble (Casey) Grimes. He married the love of his life, Della Jean Vaughn in Herrin on December 10, 1962. Together, they have shared more than sixty-two years of marriage and precious memories.
Ben, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion. Raised in a family that valued hard work and dedication, Ben went on to build a career as a gravedigger for Wilbert Vault Company. Ben's home became a safe haven for his family; a place of warmth, stability, and unconditional love. At home, Ben found joy in the simple things - watching westerns on TV, tending to his beloved saltwater fish tanks, spending time with his family and sharing stories with his wife. He was endlessly creative and handy and enjoyed using his talents to make thoughtful improvements to their home. His love for reading stories was a special bond he shared with his wife, and their quiet moments together were filled with laughter and warmth. As a husband and father, Ben was a pillar of strength and guidance. He took pride in teaching valuable lessons and making a positive impact on those around him. His strong spirit and gentle heart made everyone feel seen, heard, and welcome. Ben's passion for fishing was a source of solace and relaxation, and he often spent hours fishing, lost in thought and connected to nature. Through his life, Ben touched the hearts of many, leaving an indelible mark on those he loved. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife of sixty-two years- Della Jean Grimes of Carterville; son- Brett Grimes of Hurst; daughter- Sandra (Anthony) Di Preta of Whitestone, New York; grandson- Dylan Grimes of Pekin, Indiana; two cousins- Joyce Merz of Carterville and Norma Androff of West Frankfort; and his beloved Scottish Terrier- Casey.
He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers- Lee, Claude, Charles, and Don Grimes, and three half-sisters- Lou McHargue, Lorraine Berra, and Phyllis Maxton.
A time of visitation will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.
Funeral services will be held Monday, April 14, 2025, 2:00 PM at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Keith Owens officiating.
Burial will follow at San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin.
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.johnsonhughes.com or call 618-942-3102 for more information.
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