James R. Grimley

On Wednesday, February 21, 2024 our hearts broke when James R. Grimley, beloved husband, brother, father, and grandfather, passed away at UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Hospital, Leominster Campus.

Born on January 13, 1936 to the late John and Lonia Grimley, James was the oldest of nine siblings in a traditional Irish-Catholic home. He attended St. Cecilia’s Elementary School. He spoke often of his time as an alter boy in grammar school. James graduated from St. Bernard’s High School (Class of 1953). He was a proud U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and enlisted at just 17 years old, requiring his parents’ signature before shipping off to Paris Island for boot camp. He served overseas during the Korean conflict and was stationed on Mt. Fuji in Japan. He was also in Korea during the last few months of his deployment.

Upon his return stateside, he attended Fitchburg State College to obtain his Associate’s Degree. He married the love of his life, Concetta “Connie” DiNatale on August 6, 1960. He was employed at Jerrel Ash (a Division of Fisher Scientific) for 15 years where he worked as a service technician. His career then took him to the United States Postal Service. He worked as a letter carrier with a walking route in Fitchburg until his retirement.

He enjoyed reading, watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, scratch tickets, and spending time with family. Although in his later years he became a man of few words, he never lost his sense of humor.

James leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife Connie; children Maria O’Connell and  James (Gigi) Grimley; grandchildren Lesley O’Connell, Michael (Karen) O’Connell, Nadine (Tim) Riley, Celine (Callum) Knight, Phillip Patton, and Gabrielle Grimley; great grandchildren Alex (Amanda) Medina, Zavian Fernandez, Steven Diaz, J’Nyalis Diaz, Eddie Rodriguez, Christian Patton, Harper Knight, Joy Knight, and Ella O’Connell; great great grandchildren Melody Medina and Zyla Fernandez; siblings Thomas (Carol) Grimley and Nancy Oxner; plus many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents and siblings John Grimley, Edward Grimley, William Grimley, Patricia Gaudet, Sarah “Sally” Agnew, and Rose Tedd.

Calling hours will take place at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, from 5:00-7:00pm on Friday, February 23. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Cecilia Parish Saturday, February 24, at 11:00 am. A burial with military honors will take place at 11:00 am Monday at St. Bernard’s Cemetery

Arrangements are under the care of Brandon Funeral Home.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.