Brenda Grimes

Brenda Burton Grimes, beloved by many, passed into peace on September 6, 2022.

Born January 25, 1951 to William (Bill) and Geraldine (Jerry) Burton, she grew up in Irondale, OH. She studied at West Liberty State College where she earned her degree in Music Education, and later earned her Doctorate from Cambridge College.

Brenda dedicated her life to supporting the educational success of students in our community. For over 40 years, she taught in public and private schools in Northumberland, Essex, and Westmoreland counties. She was her fullest force in creating individualized learning paths for students, and established Homestead Academy, where her creativity, joy, and talent created a supportive and engaging education for hundreds of children. Her joy came from seeing others succeed.

She was more than a teacher, as many of you will know. She was the consummate cheerleader and mentor, helping every student live up to their potential both in and out of the classroom. She truly loved her students.

Outside of the classroom, her passions were her family and music, which served as both her muse and her gift, and was a strong foundation for her entire life. She loved the beach, dinners with family & friends, dancing and singing, and observing the natural beauty around her home. She was an ever present source of strength and compassion.

She has joined her parents, sister, and youngest daughter, and is survived by her husband of 50 years, Ray Grimes, her daughter Jennifer Vick, and her grandchildren, Noah and Camille (Neo) Vick.

Families, friends, and others whose lives she has touched are invited to reflect and celebrate her life at Faulkner Funeral Home, Marks-Bristow Chapel, 206 N Church Ln, Tappahannock, VA 22560 for visitation on Friday, September 9th from 6 - 8pm. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, September 10th at 11 a.m. with a graveside service following at Essex Cemetery. If you choose, donations can be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate)