It is with deep sorrow and a hope in the eternal, that we announce the passing of Joel Steve Grimes, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and cherished member of the Paragould community. Steve was born on May 14, 1944, in Paragould, Arkansas, and departed this life on August 24, 2025, at the age of 81.
Steve was a dedicated contractor and the proud owner and operator of Grimes Can Mart, where he served the community with integrity and commitment. Known for his work ethic and passion for home building, he poured his heart into every project, always striving to create spaces that families could cherish. His professional journey also included a role as the perishable manager for IGA.
As a devoted member of Grace United General Baptist Church, Steve held the position of Deacon and was an active participant in the church choir known affectionately as the "Back Row Boys." His faith was evident in all aspects of his life, including his service as a Gideon, where he ministered in the Greene County jail, sharing the Word of God with those in need. Steve's missionary work took him to Honduras on several occasions, where he contributed to building an orphanage, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to helping others.
Steve's interests extended beyond his professional and spiritual life. He had a passion for the outdoors, enjoying fishing, drawing, and painting. He loved flowers, often bringing blooms into his home to create beautiful arrangements. His creative spirit shone through in his ability to design his own advertisements for his grocery store, capturing the essence of his work with artistry and flair.
Steve is survived by his two daughters, Stephanie Ward and Sharlene (Mark) Graper; his grandchildren, Alan (Candi) Graper, Alexandra (Noah) Boone, and Delphia (Cody) Woodall; his brother, Barry (Judy) Grimes, and sister-in-law, Linda Grimes; as well as his five great-grandchildren: Paisley Graper, Hannah Graper, Joshua Graper, Ashton Boone, and Ritter Boone. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Kaye Grimes; father, Joel Grimes; mother, Beatrice (Allison) Grimes; and brother, Jerry Grimes.
The family will honor Steve's life with a public visitation at Heath Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Heath Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Josh Carpenter officiating. Steve will be laid to rest at Shiloh Cemetery.In this time of mourning, we find comfort in knowing that Steve's legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Memorials may be made to the Gideons International, Faith Home Honduras, or Grace United General Baptist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
321 West Garland Street P.O. Box 357, Paragould, AR 72450

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more