Walter "Walt" Smith Grimes, Jr.

ROCKY MOUNT – Walter “Walt” Smith Grimes, Jr., age 78, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 15, 2022. Born in Anne Arundel County, MD on September 15, 1943, he was the son of late Walter Smith Grimes, Sr., and Daisy Vick Grimes. He was also proceeded in death by an older brother, Baby Grimes.

Walt left the family farm to attend college at North Carolina State University. He served in the United States Marine Corps. Walt valued higher education and later attended East Carolina University earning a Batchelor of Science and a Masters degree in Business Administration. Walt held various jobs through the years, but his passion was always boats and being on the water. He obtained his Captain’s license as well as a Merchant Marine Certificate and made numerous trips up and down the East Coast moving boats for others. His favorite pastime was enjoying his own sailboat, Wookie Bear, with his best bulldog Sally.

Walt is survived by his soulmate, Cheryl Maupin of Greenville; his devoted sister and caregiver, Joyce Grimes Everett and her husband, Dave of Wilson; his brother, retired Sheriff Jimmy Grimes and his wife, Faye of Nashville; his niece Kelcey Grimes Gazaway and her husband, Eric of Nashville; his nephews Eddie Everett and David Everett.

A Graveside Service to celebrate Walt’s life will be held on Monday, April 18, 2022, at 11:00 AM at Rocky Mount Memorial Park with Rev. Carlton Cockrell officiating. A visitation with the family will follow the service at the graveside.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Walt’s memory to any Children’s Cancer Hospital of your choice.

Captain Walter Grimes set sail on a new voyage. He lost a long hard battle with cancer. “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sail. Explore! Dream! Discover!” ~Mark Twain

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting info@wheelerwoodlief.com.

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