Obituary published on Legacy.com by Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory from Jul. 8 to Jul. 17, 2025.
John Randall Grimshaw, 76, of
Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully on the morning of July 4, 2025 at home with his family.
Ever adaptable, John worked in a variety of careers throughout his life, but he was first and always a musician, an educator, and a family man.
John was born in Moberly as the youngest of five brothers. He studied music education at the University of Missouri and made his first career teaching music in public schools. In 1980, he married Connie and dedicated the rest of his life to her and to their family.
John studied music education at the University of Missouri and began his career inspiring young minds as a music teacher in public schools. Demonstrating remarkable adaptability, John-born before the term 'software' was coined-taught himself computer programming and made another career of it. He built, among other tools, a vital inventory and operations system that sustained a local printing business for decades. His passion for technology also inspired his son, Matt, who pursued a career in aerospace technology development. John worked in various departments in the MU healthcare system before landing in his final and favorite position, training staff-a role that happily allowed him to enjoy lunch daily with his beloved wife, Connie, as she worked in the same building.
John was a Christian and a long-time member of Woodcrest Chapel.
Music pulsed through John's entire life. He cherished every opportunity to experience live music with friends and family, but his greatest joy came from making music. He lent his voice and horn talents to an eclectic range of bands, including the 70's rock group The Dillinger Gang, the Christian ensemble Little Flock, and the jazz group Special Blend. He was also a regular fixture at local jazz and blues jam sessions. A gift of a ukulele later in life from his niece Sherrie and her husband Ron sparked a new passion. John learned the instrument and enjoyed playing it almost daily with his family.
John will be remembered for his kindness, his patience, his bright mind, his unwavering devotion to family, and the beautiful music he brought into the world.
John is predeceased by his parents Ted and Norma Lee Grimshaw and his four brothers Jim, Bob, Bill and Tom. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Connie; their children Heather Mulligan (Matt Chasen), Erin Buckler, and Matt Grimshaw; his grandchildren Emily (Noah) Peterson, Shelby Lyon, Courtney Lyon, Elijah Forsee, and Zach Buckler; great-grandchildren Daphne, Julian, Jaxon and Wren; brother- and sister-in-law Gary (Karen) Milam; and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations are suggested to the Central Missouri Community Action Agency Bridge Program. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/centralmissouricommunityaction
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com
To send flowers to the family of John R Grimshaw, please visit our floral store.