John R Grimshaw

John R Grimshaw obituary, Columbia, MO

John R Grimshaw

John Grimshaw Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory from Jul. 8 to Jul. 17, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

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.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor John Grimshaw's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign John Grimshaw's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?