James W Grimsley

James Wilson Grimsley, age 81, of Destin, Florida, passed away on Saturday, April 16, 2022, in his home with his loving wife, Eve, by his side. Jim was born on July 30, 1940, to William Elmer and Elaine Wilson Grimsley, in Pensacola, Florida. Jim was a founding member of the law firm Anchors Smith Grimsley and was one of Northwest Florida's preeminent attorneys specializing in business and real estate law. Before beginning his legal career, Jim served as a Captain in the United States Air Force and saw duty in Vietnam.

Jim began his legal career in Fort Walton Beach in 1969. He held the highest possible rating for professional abilities and ethical standards. Jim served as Chairman of the First District Court of Appeals Judicial Nominating Commission. He also served the Florida Bar and his profession in numerous similar capacities.

Jim grew up in Pensacola and attended public schools there. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. He obtained his Juris Doctor Degree from the Walter F. George School of Law, Mercer University.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Eve, his son, Edward Benton Grimsley (wife: Tara), of Destin, Florida, and his brother, Buddy Grimsley, of Pensacola, Florida.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved step-daughter, Happel Shae Scott, and his brother, Aaron Grimsley.

Jim also leaves behind his law partners and dear friends, C. LeDon Anchors, Richard P. Petermann, Steven B. Bauman, Timothy W. Shaw, C. Jeffery McInnis, Shiraz A. Hosein, N. Gresham Foster, and Kyle S. Bauman.

The visitation will be at Emerald Coast Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at 1:00 pm with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 pm. Jim will be laid to rest at Beal Memorial Cemetery following the services. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in Jim's name to the Alaqua Animal Refuge, Inc.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James W Grimsley, please visit our floral store.