James Edward "Butch" Grimes

James Edward "Butch" Grimes, 78, passed away on August 3, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. A devoted
husband, father, and architect, Butch was also an active member of the Tuscaloosa Rotary Club and
attended Christ Episcopal Church. Born in Tallassee, AL, Butch graduated from Auburn University in 1973
with a Bachelor of Architecture. As a member of Auburn's first architectural co-op team, he gained
practical experience that would shape his distinguished career. He was a member of Theta-Xi Fraternity
and maintained lifelong friendships with many of his fraternity brothers. Butch's professional work
reflected his deep commitment to thoughtful design and civic responsibility. He specialized in energy
conservation and green design, historic preservation, and disaster mitigation. His portfolio includes the Tuscaloosa City Hall Annex as well as numerous municipal buildings, historic renovations, and private homes across Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. In addition, Butch served as a coordinator for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in Alabama following the devastating tornado of April 2011. His efforts helped guide recovery efforts and demonstrated his unwavering dedication to community resilience. Those who knew Butch remember him as charming and intelligent-a man who gave generously to others and lived as an example of God's grace. Butch is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Amelia "Amy" Grimes; daughter Leslie Banta (Robert) and grandsons Samuel and Maxwell Banta of Staunton, Virginia; son James "Jamey" Grimes (Amy Pirkle) of Cottondale, Alabama; son Oliver Grimes of Mobile, Alabama; and sister Gina Mansfield. He is also survived by numerous extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.C. and Jean Grimes of Sylacauga, Alabama; brother Barry Grimes; and brother-in-law Wayne Mansfield. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on August 9, 2025, at Christ Episcopal Church, 605 Lurleen B Wallace N Blvd. in Tuscaloosa.