Mark Arthur Grimes, a beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully after a long illness on December 8, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on April 14, 1948, to Dr. M. Osmond and Elin C. Grimes, Mark’s life was marked by love, compassion, and an enduring dedication to his family and community.
Mark was a man of quiet strength and profound kindness. His warmth and generosity left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He approached life with unwavering integrity, always prioritizing the well-being of those around him.
Mark’s career was distinguished by a commitment to excellence and a deep sense of purpose. He graduated from De La Salle Academy in 1966, Providence College (BA History, Cum Laude) in 1970 and Boston College School of Law in 1973. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1974 and was also admitted to the Bar in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. His career was dedicated to the practice of real estate law. He was a member of Florida Bar’s Real Property, Probate and Trust law section. In the early 1990s he assisted in forming and was later President of the Rhode Island Underwriters Association. He also served as Secretary of the New England Land Title Association.
Family was at the center of Mark’s world. He was a devoted husband to Karen (Siletchnik) Grimes and their service dog Jeff.
Mark was also deeply committed to his community. He volunteered his time for My Angel With Paws, Inc., in Deland, Fla., dedicating himself to a cause close to his heart. His selflessness and generosity were evident in every act of service he provided.
Mark had a deep love of music, especially playing the guitar and singing. He performed professionally for ten years, both solo in the Newport area and as a member of the Slim Brothers band, sharing his musical talents with audiences far and wide. He loved to play guitar with friends and his nieces and nephews, creating cherished memories filled with joy and laughter.
Mark was one of 16 children and is survived by his siblings: Peter and Sally Grimes of Middletown, R.I.; Dr. Stephen and Jeanne Grimes, Michael and Beth Grimes, Dominic and Jennifer Grimes, all of Portsmouth, R.I.; Dr. Andrew and Candace Grimes of Garden City, N.Y.; Christopher and Billie Ann Grimes of Lexington, Ky.; Laura Grimes of Fuquay Varina, N.C.; Bartholomew and Maureen Grimes, Victoria and Brian Sullivan, Matthew Grimes and Kara Henry, Valerie and Patrick Kelley, Martin and Susan Grimes, all of Newport, R.I. He is also survived by 30 nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Gregory Grimes who is survived by his wife Mary Lou, Nicholas Grimes, and Veronica Wallworth who is survived by her husband Scott. Mark was also the brother in law of Bailey Siletchnik and the late Dr. Mark Siletchnik.
A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at a future date in Newport. His funeral services were private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to My Angel with Paws, Deland, Fla.
