MaDonna Grimes

Aug 21, 1962-Nov 4, 2016

Knoxville, TN

MaDonna DeAnne Grimes was born August 21, 1962, in Knoxville, Tennessee to Sadye Evelyn (Anderson) Grimes and the late Curtis Grimes. She transitioned into God's loving care November 4, 2016, after a courageous battle with cancer in Hollywood, CA, spiritually encircled by loved ones. Raised in Dayton, Ohio, "Dodie" graduated from John H. Patterson Cooperative High School. She earned a BS degree from Ohio State University and a MS degree from New York University. She settled in Hollywood, CA, where she was known worldwide for her dance, fitness, and award-winning choreography skills and zest. Her talent and credentials extensive, MaDonna's accomplishments earned her the world stage. She graced the cover of Shape, Glamour, Allure, HER by Muscle and Fitness, and American Fitness magazines, and authored the book, Work It Out. She was at the helm of the MaDonna Grimes Fitness Dance Theatre Company in Los Angeles. She earned first place titles as Miss Fitness America, Miss Fitness International, and USA National Aerobics Champion. MaDonna was a guest host on ESPN, BET Street Scene, and Nubian Goddess, and featured on FitTV and Discovery Channel fitness shows. Known as the "Queen of Fitness, Dance and Hip-Hop", Ms. Grimes received the NAACP Best Choreography Theater Award in 2006. Many learned the art of hip-hop dance from her numerous videos and DVDs. Also, an actress, model, and internet health and wellness trainer, she lauded celebrity status in her frequently-requested international engagements.

MaDonna was preceded in death by her father, Curtis Grimes; and brother, Jeffrey Grimes. Those sending her forever love are her beautiful, amazing daughter, MaDison Genola Grimes-Wayne; loving mother, Sadye Evelyn Grimes; sisters, Brigitte (Darrell) Grimes-Harris, Nikita Grimes, and Carmen Grimes; brothers, Kelvin (Tara) Grimes, and Tony Grimes; beloved friend, Marvin Thornton; everlasting soulmate, Jeff Levy; and cousin by blood, yet brother in life, Ira "Chipper" Grimes, Jr.; aunts, Carrie Johnson, Cynthia Anderson, Geraline Scott, Virginia Taylor, and Maosa (Will) Moore; uncles, Ira Grimes, Sr., and Larry (Faye) Grimes; adorable nieces, handsome nephews, wonderful cousins and many devoted fans.

On Monday, November 14, 2016, the family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a celebration of life service to follow at Rogers Memorial Baptist Church at 520 College Street, Knoxville, TN 37921. Elder Dr. Joe B. Maddox, eulogist. Interment to immediately follow at Highland South Cemetery where a white dove release will conclude the service. All expressions of love may be delivered to the church the morning of the service. Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com.

 

(Published in Knoxville News Sentinel )