Opel Vernell Grimes

Opel Selph Grimes, a devoted matriarch and beloved community member, passed away peacefully on December 4, in her hometown of Milan, Georgia. Born on August 27, 1931, Opel was a vibrant soul who devoted her life to loving and caring for others.  She touched many lives, and left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Opel's nurturing spirit was evident in every aspect of her life. An exceptional cook, she brought comfort and joy to her family and friends through her culinary talents—her dishes were a source of warmth that drew loved ones together, creating cherished memories around the dinner table. Beyond the kitchen, she was a multi-talented individual, renowned for her skills as an excellent seamstress, creating beautiful garments that showcased her meticulous artistry.  Her talents extended to include painting, creating floral pieces, writing music, singing, and her tireless work as a pastor's wife. Her musical talents were a source of pride for her family as she had mastered several instruments, including piano, accordion and guitar, often showcasing her musical ability at New Red Hill Holiness Baptist Church, where she was a longtime member and was secretary and treasurer for many years. Opel was extremely intelligent, delivering perfection in all that she did and she expected perfection from others.  She will be remembered by her community for her outstanding character, her unwavering dedication to caring for her aging parents and her disabled brother, and anyone who she felt needed extra love, even local students as she would sometimes be found driving their school bus.

A proud wife, Opel was married to her beloved husband, Rev. Roy Grimes, for an extraordinary 74 years. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love, honors shared, and challenges faced together. She was a dedicated mother to her children: Steven Grimes and Allen (Ellen) Grimes, whose lives were enriched by her constant love and guidance. Known for her fierce dedication to family, Opel's spirit will continue to resonate through her grandchildren—Catharine Grimes (John Michael) Page, Caroline Grimes (William) Squires, David (Stephanie) Stevenson, Kristi (Tommy) Dix, and Kaysi (Scott) Beverly—and great-grandchildren, including Callen Page, Emma Cate Page, Patrick (Brayden) Stevenson, Zan Stevenson, Lilly Stevenson, Daniel Dix, Jesse Dix, Ben Beverly, and Max Beverly. Each of them carries a piece of her legacy forward.

Opel was also predeceased by her cherished parents, Scarborough Jessup Selph and Mattie Bell Davis Selph, who instilled in her the values of kindness and compassion that she embodied throughout her life. She is survived by her brother, Roy Selph, and sister, Lois Towns, who stand as a testament to the close-knit relationships she fostered within her family.  She was also preceded in death by daughter-in-law, Sandi Grimes; and brothers, Luther Selph, June Selph, Joe Selph, Russell Selph and Mitchell Selph.

As we gather to celebrate Opel's remarkable life, we invite family and friends to pay their respects during the visitation on December 7, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Both services will be held at Vaughn Funeral Home, located at 107 E. Oak Street in McRae, Georgia.  Burial will be at Grimes Cemetery.

Opel will be remembered not only for her unwavering love and dedication to her family but also for the profound kindness she extended to everyone she encountered. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy of love and care will continue to inspire all who had the honor of knowing her.