Janet Grimes

With profound sadness, our family announces the loss of our beloved Janet, who left us far too soon at the age of 70. She departed this life on September 10, 2025, at her cherished home on Cape Cod.
Janet was a proud Boston native whose strength, warmth, and steady presence shaped the lives of all who loved her. She grew up in Jamaica Plain with her parents Lily Grimes (Langille) and George F. Grimes and three older brothers, George Jr., Bobby and Ronnie. Janet adored her brothers and loved them dearly, a dedication that reflected her lifelong loyalty to family.
A devoted mother from her teenage years onward, Janet carried her strength with grace, never faltering in her love for her only son, Scott Edward, the same love she extended to her niece, Kristen Ina, whom she treated as a daughter. Janet was equally proud to be the spouse of a retired Boston police officer; while Charlie wore the badge, Janet embodied the role of protector in her own right-fiercely committed to her family and always putting their needs first.
Janet blessed us with a radiant smile, eyes that sparkled, and, true to her heritage, the Irish gift of gab. The glue that held us all together, Janet was the one we turned to first in moments of both joy and crisis. With her steady strength, quick wit, and unshakable responsibility, she made life's challenges appear lighter. Strong in every way, yet also tender, sentimental, and deeply loving, Janet's warmth touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her love of storytelling and tradition enriched all of our lives. She cherished our history, held close the rituals that bound us together, and reminded us of who we are and where we come from.
Janet delighted in Christmas Eve gatherings, decorating her home for the holidays, and creating handmade cross-stitch gifts, including stockings that will be treasured for generations. She had a deep love for Cape Cod summers-savoring quiet mornings outdoors with a cup of tea-as well as family vacations to Holden Beach and magical trips to Disney. Her beautiful grandchildren, Ivan and Lexi, brought her immeasurable joy. She cherished every update and photo, and never hesitated to drop everything to be there whenever she was needed. Janet held her daughter-in-law, Jessica, in deep love and admiration; their bond was a source of happiness and comfort.
Janet found joy in life's simple pleasures: caring for her beloved dogs, often calling family members while out walking them, and spending time on Cape Cod, where she spent her final weeks with her devoted spouse, Charlie.
Janet was a source of laughter, wisdom, and comfort. It is difficult to comprehend a world without her, as she has been the strong center of ours. Though our hearts are broken, we take solace in knowing her love will live on in every tradition she cherished and in every memory she created with us.
Janet Grimes of Cape Cod and Bolivia, NC formerly of Jamaica Plain and Roslindale. Beloved spouse of Charles "'Charlie" O'Hear (Ret. BPD). Devoted mother of Scott Edward Grimes and his wife Jessica of NC. Dear sister of the late George, Ronald "Ronnie", and Robert "Bobby" Grimes. Loving grandmother of Ivan and Alexis "Lexi" Grimes. Sister-in-Law of Denise and Bernie Hannon of NC, Neil O'Hear and Maryann Cappello of Melrose, Maureen Franks of Stow, Chris Donelan of Bridgewater, Susan Grimes of Norwood, and Barbara Grimes of Stoughton. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Visiting Hours in the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre Street. West Roxbury, on Thursday, September 18th from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. Followed by a Funeral Service at 6:00pm. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Janet may be made to a charity of choice.