Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Paula Grimes Obituary
Paula retired from Florida's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. She had a heart and compassion for people. Her career and personal life were dedicated to helping others, a passion she continued in her retirement. As a longtime member of Northwoods Baptist Church, she was active in the Women's Ministry and Mission Teams, spending much of her free time as a volunteer both in our community and abroad. Her passion for the children of Haiti will be a lasting contribution to her memory.
An adventurous woman, she loved gardening, biking, jogging, swimming, and enjoying the water. Paula lived life to the fullest with joy and enthusiasm.
Visitation will be held Tuesday evening, October 26th at Northwoods Baptist Church, 3762 NW Capital Circle from 6:00 - 8:00. The celebration of her life will be held at Northwoods Baptist Church Wednesday morning October 27th at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Most High Ministries, P.O. Box 180391, Tallahassee, Florida 32318, C/O Scott Bonnell for the Haitian Relief Fund.
BEVIS FUNERAL HOME of Tallahassee (850/385-2193) is handling arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paula Grimes
Tippy Amick
November 4, 2010
To Paula's family - I hope that you are feeling all the love around you as you go through this very difficult time. I was one of the many who so loved working with Paula, a remarkable woman who could light up the room with her sweet smiles. Seeing Paula last month at hospice visiting a friend was so typically her in her ministry to others. Sending blessings and love to each of you.
Paula Warmath
November 1, 2010
Kenny, Amanda and Jake,
I am thinking of you all just now. Kenny, I knew Paula through you and the wonderful things that you always said about your bride--what a testament to a loving marriage and family. Please know that you all continue to be in my thought and prayers.
God bless and keep you,
Paula Warmath
Maria Risco
November 1, 2010
Dear Kenny, Amanda and Jake, I was saddened to learn of Paula unexpected death. I always admired her for her dedication, compassion and tenacity working with people with disabilities. I enjoyed the stories of her missions to Cuba and her committment to helping others. We will miss Paula and will keep her in my prayers and for your confort during this difficult time.
Vocational Rehabilitation
October 30, 2010
Below is the e-mail that was sent from Mr. Bill Palmer, VR State Director, to all current VR employees in the State of Florida concerning Paula's passing.
From: Palmer, Bill
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 2010 8:23 AM
To: All VR Users
Subject: Paula Grimes
The rehabilitation community was shocked and saddened to learn that Paula Grimes died this past weekend in a diving related incident 15 miles off shore from Port Saint Joe, Florida. Paula worked for many years in the Tallahassee area as a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, beginning in May 1985. She was considered by her colleagues as a counselor’s counselor who loved and lived the rehabilitation philosophy, which she modeled in both word and deed.
Upon coming to the Headquarters Office, Paula worked in the MIS section, bringing a combined knowledge of counselor policy and computer problem solving skills. Later, she moved into the Ombudsman Program, which she directed before retiring in July 2008. Her skills in mediation garnered her respect from customers, staff, and the Client Assistance Program.
Paula was considered a class act, appreciated by many for her humility, faith, benevolent spirit, and positive attitude. She participated in many mission trips with her church, and her faith in God and love of missions earned her the nickname “resident missionary” by many in VR headquarters.
Paula’s sudden passing leaves a deep void in the heart of the rehabilitation community. I believe we can best honor her life by keeping her love for rehabilitation alive in our own hearts.
Please keep the Grimes family in your thoughts and prayers.
Cards may be sent to: The Grimes Family, 460 Gus Bert Farm Road, Havana, Florida 32333
Funeral arrangements are as follows: A visitation will be held this evening (October 26) from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Northwoods Baptist Church, 3762 Northwest Capital Circle, Tallahassee, Florida. A celebration of Paula’s life will be held at Northwoods Baptist Church, Wednesday, October 27, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Most High Ministries, P. O. Box 180391, Tallahassee, Florida 32318 (c/o Scott Bonnell for the Haitian Relief Fund).
Bill Palmer
DVR Director
Florida Department of Education
[email protected]
S. Hudson
October 28, 2010
To the Grimes Family, my deepest sympathy to you all. Paula was always a pleasant and wonderful person. She will truly be missed.
Hudson ( Deltona, Fl.)
Gene Jensen
October 28, 2010
Sorry to hear of your loss. I always knew that if I called on Paula she would give me the correct answer. She was a wonderful person to work with and I will miss her. May God bless you during this time.
Robin Carlberg
October 28, 2010
Kenneth and Family,
Paula will be missed. What a wonderful legacy she leaves. I count it as a joy to have known her. May God comfort you in your loss.
Robin Carlberg
Nora Grisby
October 28, 2010
To the Grimes Family, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Paula. I worked with Paula on many projects in the MIS Section of VR. She was always pleasant and willing to help or assist in any way she could. She really meant a lot to all of us. She had a kind spirit and was so easy to talk with. She touched many Lives during her time here. Take courage in knowing that she had a heart of love which is of the father. She poured out to so many of us across the state of Florida. May you walk in the peace of the lord during your time of loss. God Bless.
Mark & Janora Crow
October 28, 2010
Kenny, Amanda and Jake- Paula has always been a joy in our family and it is a blessing to know how God has used her willingness to serve in all areas of her life. Know we love you!
Kevin Langston
October 27, 2010
Matt, I am so sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine what you are going through. Kenny, Amanda, and Jake, while I've never had an opportunity to meet you, I grew up with Paula and Matt at Seminole Baptist Church. What a very special person she was. She will me missed. See you in Heaven Paula! Tell your mom "Hi" for me!
Elaine Wesley
October 27, 2010
Kenny, Jake, Amanda, and Family -
Paula was a unique light and will be sorely missed. All who loved her love you as well. May that love, and the comfort of the Lord sustain you.
Priscilla Cole
October 27, 2010
To the Family of Paula Grimes:
I have known and worked with Paula for many years in the VR/MIS Section. She was very special and I always enjoyed working with her. My heart is saddened and I share your grief. My deepest sympathy to you all.
Alethea Lawhon
October 27, 2010
Praying for you.
Lila Swartz
October 27, 2010
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.
Laura Hebron- Lasseter
October 27, 2010
Matt,Freddie and Kenny, you and your loved ones are in my prayers. What a joy Paula was just as her mother Miss Dot was. I enjoyed the time we had together. Now Paula has joined her and they are our angels now. Love and prayers.
Ralph & Kay Vennum
October 27, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dianne Nathan
October 27, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about Paula. She was such a wonderful meek and mild person. When I worked with VR it was a pleasure to come into contact with Paula in any conversation. I will pray for her family and with GOD in charge of our lives, he will see them through this.
Paula Crews
October 27, 2010
Kenny, Amanda, Jake and family my heart goes out to you in the loss of our wonderful Paula. I worked with Paula at VR up until her retirement and I tell you she has been missed since that time. Paula was always smiling and was always such a blessing to me. We shared the name of Paula J and the month of February as our birth month and we would often laugh about it. She always said that was why we were such good friends. I know you all have rough times ahead but just remember she was doing what she loved and is now where she always wanted to be when her life as we know it was over. She is happy and in a much better place than we are. Continue to live as she would want you to and one day you will all be together again. With love and fond memories, Paula J.
Barrett & Connie Lampp
October 26, 2010
Our Condolence and prayer for Paula's Family and Friends . . . Jude 24 " . . Now to HIM who is able to keep you from stumbling, and make you stand in the presence of HIS GLORY Blameless with great JOY, as to the only GOD our SAVIOR, through JESUS CHRIST our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. . . " NASB
Sonnie Rowan
October 26, 2010
What a lovely lady she was......Godspeed my friend. Remember her with love.
Sandra & Wayne Harvell
October 26, 2010
Dear Kenny and Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your bride and your children's mother, words just can not express our sorrow for you all at this difficult time. I know that you love her dearly and when I think about how many times you called her your bride when you spoke of her truly shows the love that you carry her in your heart for her. We want you to know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. If you need a friend, please give me a call. The days ahead are going to be difficult for you but I feel assured that you will carry on as Paula would want you to. Keep the fond memories that you two shared together in your mind and close to your heart. I know that you are very strong person. There is no doubt in my heart that God will help you through this.
With Love,
Sandra and Wayne Harvell
Janet Stirrat
October 26, 2010
Anyone who knew Paula is feeling a loss. She was not only my neighbor but a wonderful Christian friend. What I will remember most about her is that she "loved well". Paula was always busy doing something for somebody. She enjoyed life to the fullest. I will miss seeing her walking down our road with a big smile on her face. One day in heaven we will walk & talk again. My love & prayers go out to her family.
Ted Altavilla
October 26, 2010
I had the privilege to work with Paula for many years at the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. During that time I came to know Paula as a caring and giving person. Paula's smiling face radiated as a result of that inner peace that can only be attained through service to others and an unconditional love for the Lord. I will always think of Paula as a valued colleague and a good friend! May the Lord hold her in the palm of His hand! And may He grant Kenny, Amanda and Jake the strength to face the challenge of the days ahead!
Kristin Bailey
October 26, 2010
Paula will definitely be missed. It was tough walking into Northwoods on Sunday and knowing she wasn't there. She always had a smile on her face everytime I saw her. All of her family and friends are in my prayers.
October 26, 2010
My daughter's friendship with Amanda afforded me the opportunity of a friendship with Paula. What a great friendship, what a wonderful person to know. Paula will be greatly missed. She's sitting with orphaned children with heaven, I just know she is!!! See you when I get there Paula. .....Rhonda Register (Tallahassee, FL)
Angela Doughgtie
October 26, 2010
Paula had such a heart for helping others, from Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes to Haiti to abused women. She was doing a wonderful job as women's ministry director and was always concerned that the needs of the women in our church body be met. She will be greatly missed!
Krista (Anderson) McMullen
October 26, 2010
Paula, you could never know the flood of memories that come back to me from my childhood and times spent with you and Kenny and my mom and dad. I will never forget those times and never have. When I'm scared of a cow chasing me, when I see a beaver damn, the smell of the woods, I will think of you and smile.
Kenny, my heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to you, your children, and the rest of the family.
With all my love.
Michelle Sweeney-O'Neal
October 26, 2010
Jake and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all as you deal with the loss of your Mom. I was at a women's retreat when Eli called to tell me this sad news. Immediately, about 50 people including ministers, lifted your family up in prayer. Though I never met your Mom, I knew that she must have been a wonderful woman just by knowing the son she raised. I am sure she was most proud of you and your sister. Eli always spoke so highly of your Mom and Dad as well. You all will continue to be in my prayers.
God bless you,
Michelle Sweeney
Mina Roller
October 26, 2010
Dear Kenny, Amanda, and Jake,
I am so sorry for your loss. Paula was like a shining light, so happy and energetic, loving and compassionate. She was a wonderful friend, and I'll never forget all the great times we had together. She was truly a blessing to us all.
Bill Harris
October 26, 2010
Help us, O LORD to finish the good work here begun by your servant Paula. Let`s get busy!
Bunny Ritchie
October 26, 2010
I am in total shock and disbelief. Paula and Matt have been family frineds since we were young children. I loved them both like a sister and a brother. Matt - know that I am thinking of you and my heart is hurting. I love you and will keep you in my prayers. Your baby sister, Bunny
Paul & Shirley Blackburn
October 26, 2010
Paula
What a dear Friend you have been over the years. We have know each other since we were kids. Our family have spent many hours together. We may not have stayed in touch over the years, but you have all ways been there. I know your husband and kids are heart broken, you left this earth to soon. God must have a reason why he needed you up there. I will miss you and your smile. Your Mom and Dad must be so happy there little girl is home. God bless your family during these trying times. Love you
Kathy Brower
October 26, 2010
Paula had such an endearing smile for everyone and enjoyed life to the fullest. She talked about missions when ever she was in my shop and told me events going on at Northwoods. You could see her excitement for the Lord in all her conversations. I will truly miss her.
Sandra Kirkland
October 26, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
October 26, 2010
Miss Paula, you will be so greatly missed on this earth, but we must share you with Our Father just now. What a time you had here and so many lives you touched. Oh, how the Father used your mighty heart to love and care for so many.
To her sweet family-we are hurting for your loss and we know that He has His Arms all about you.
Scott and Lisa Bonnell
Jacob, Ethan & Chloe
Bruce Ferris
October 26, 2010
Paula Grimes is one of my dearest sisters in Christ whom I love so much. I say “is” because Paula is more alive today than when she graced us with her presence. I thank the Lord so much for bringing her into my life. She best lived out the words of the Christian hymn, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh what a foretaste of Glory Divine!” If Paula could speak to your heart today she would say, “This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior, all the day long.” She truly lives those words. You always sensed her joy. Paula loved the abundant life given in Christ and desired to share the "Good News" of Jesus with so many hurting in the world. She was a missionary in every sense of the word and a friend who stood faithfully by you and prayed for you. Paula was most supportive of our Marketplace Bible studies when I worked for Vocational Rehabilitation. She was lovingly referred to us in her days with Vocational Rehabilitation as our resident missionary and what a missionary she was! Like her mother Dot Joiner she now enjoys in heaven, Paula went on as many mission trips as the Lord would allow her given all her other responsibilities. Paula loved her family more than words can amply describe. My heart felt prayers go out to Kenny, Amanda, Jake and all the family. In the words of “Blessed Assurance” Paula is saying, “Perfect submission, all is at rest; I in my Savior am happy and blest.”
Terry Rocco
October 26, 2010
Kenny and family, words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. She was a very sweet person and was taken away much too soon. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Showing 1 - 37 of 37 results
Make a Donation
in Paula Grimes's name
Memorial Events
for Paula Grimes
Funeral services provided by:
Bevis Funeral Home - Tallahassee200 John Knox Road, Tallahassee, FL 32303
How to support Paula's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Paula Grimes's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
