Jaylen Alyne Grimes

We remember with love the life of Jaylen Alyne Grimes, our Jaybird, a radiant and compassionate young lady who passed away on September 28, 2025, at the age of 17. Though her time with us was far too short, Jaylen was full of love, creativity and passion which was seen and felt by all who met her.

Jaylen was born on May 16, 2008 in Milton, Florida but spent most of her life in Houston, Texas. Jaylen was a bright, artistic, and deeply empathetic young lady who lovingly impacted the lives of everyone around her.

Her heart was as big as her imagination. She had a gift for music and could often be found singing along to her favorite songs. She was a talented artist who was always drawing or creating. Jaylen had a special way of seeing people — especially those who were silently hurting or felt overlooked. She never met a stranger. She was sweet and gentle with children, kind to the elderly, and had a natural instinct to reach out to anyone who needed encouragement or a new friend. Animals were drawn to her, and she never met one she didn’t love – she especially loved visiting pet stores, where she could spend time admiring and holding all of the animals, wishing she could bring them all home. Jaylen was also a passionate collector and thrifter, always on the hunt for small treasures and meaningful finds. Anyone who visited was introduced to her collections of stuffed animals, dolls, and her Littlest Pet Shop family. She cared deeply about giving a home to each and every animal or character in her care.

Jaylen is survived by her loving mother, Melynda Grimes, father, Robert “Bert” Grimes; Candyce Gilliland; grandmother, Sherry Givens Gatewood; grandfathers Don Grimes and Myles Gilliland (Sarah); brother Ryland Gilliland; sisters Casey Kucera (Brian) and Kelly Grimes; and her best friend, Kaya Whitworth. Kaya always lifted her up and encouraged her daily and truly knew how to make her laugh and smile. Kaya never looked down on Jay and always encouraged her to be herself – their friendship was beautiful and one to be cherished. She was also close with and loved by her aunt, Michele Smith, and they spent a lot of quality time together. She also leaves behind a loving extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, and a niece and nephew, who cherished her deeply. Jaylen was especially close to her neighbor, Pam Bryant and close family friend, Ashley Hunter who befriended her and never turned down the chance to take Jay out for fun adventures. Her home school teacher, Michelle Odoms, was always motivating and patient and found innovative ways that worked specifically for Jay’s learning. Jaylen was loved not only by her family but also by several teachers and neighbors who valued her warmth and kindness.

Jaylen’s genuine kindness and laughter, pure heart, and limitless spirit will never be forgotten. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled. Her presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those whose lives she touched and those who love her.

In lieu of flowers to honor the life of Jaylen, her family suggest donations be made to Paw Pact Rescue at https://pawpactrescue.com/donate

A graveside service will be held for Jaylen Alyne Grimes at Holly Springs Cemetery, 854 Hwy 79, Homer, LA, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Byron Longino, officiating. Visitation will be held graveside from 1-2 p.m., prior to the service.

Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Homer Chapel (318) 927-6110