Carley Grimes

(From Parker Mortuary)

November 6, 1975 - August 10, 2025

Carley was a free spirit whose presence lit up every room, every garden, every party, and every thrift store she walked into. She faced more than her fair share of battles—health struggles, surgeries, and pain. Even while carrying those burdens, she tried to wear her strength like a second skin, not letting it define her.

In the time we were given at the end, even while facing many surgeries, illnesses, and her struggles, she made the most of the time she had with the people she loved. She created meaningful memories with her two greatest joys—her children, Millie and Zane Grimes. She loved Millie’s quiet strength, her diligence in her studies, and the bright future ahead of her. And she adored Zane for his musical talents and the charismatic charm he brought into every room when he played his guitar. She didn’t just love them as a mother—she admired them as two beautiful young adults who had become her greatest creation.

Her little nephew, Kase, called her “Coco.” He loved that she was the ultimate prankster, with a contagious laugh that could heal just about anything. Carley had the kind of humor that could lighten the heaviest of hearts, and a tambourine beat that could keep up with any tune—because yes, Carley was that person. She loved music. She was rhythm-filled, unapologetically fun, and she had an artistic heart. A boho hippie chick, she could decorate any home, holiday, or moment and make it beautiful. Her creativity knew no bounds.

Her love of nature was just as wild and free. She loved to thrift, to dig her hands into the dirt, and to keep her eyes on the garden. And when she went rock collecting with Kase, it was never just a pocketful—it was buckets full.

Carley would depart from her most precious possessions—her family, including her two children, Millie and Zane Grimes; her mother, Marcy Hooker; her father, Larry Smith; her stepfather, Stuart Hooker; her stepmother, Kat Smith; her sister, Stevi Smith; and her two nephews, Keegan and Kase.

She had a deep love for animals, especially her sweet cattle dog, Bella—beautiful Bella, her constant companion and loyal friend. Their bond was tender and true, like everything Carley loved.

She loved the simple things—but Carley could never do them simply. If it was coffee, it couldn’t just be coffee. It had to be strong espresso with sweet cream, topped with whipped cream, and a little of this and that—because why not? She also loved shopping—especially thrifting—and yes, until the bags were full and the wallets were empty. She had a sweet tooth, just like she had a sweet soul.

Though her time here was far, far too short, Carley was deeply loved by her family and friends. Though she faced many challenges, she left her mark in laughter, in music, and in the memories of her children—and in every rock she ever collected. We hold Carley in our hearts today, because she was here, and because we loved her. And as we remember her, we celebrate her life—the laughter she shared, the beauty she created, and the love she gave so freely. We love you, Carley. Always.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be held following the service until 7:00 p.m.

Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.