Gerald Robert Grindstaff

Gerald Robert Grindstaff, 71, of Toledo, went to the great music festival in the sky on Friday, March 18, 2022–the same day he would have celebrated fifty years of marriage to his wife, Ellen. Jerry was born on his mother’s twenty-first birthday, July 14, 1950. He was her first and best birthday gift. He grew up with the love and support of his parents, Geraldine and Robert Grindstaff. Jerry developed a passion for art, which led him to complete his BA in Art Education at BGSU. He remained an artist throughout his life, working primarily in collage and digital art.

Jerry was a passionate music fan and could often be found at Boogie Records. In addition to music, Jerry shared a love of reading with his daughter and enjoyed classic movies. He was a hardworking, dedicated man that everyone loved to be around.  After retirement from Martin Marietta, Jerry fully indulged in his love of music by helping at Culture Clash. He never met a stranger, only friends that he hadn’t talked to yet.  Jerry was always striving to be the best version of himself. He was a dedicated family man who always made his wife, daughter, and granddaughters his number one priority. Jerry will be dearly missed.

Jerry’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of his wife, Ellen, with whom he spent over 50 wonderful years; daughter, Michelle (Jared Schuetter) Grindstaff; granddaughters, Claudia and Vivian Schuetter; brother, James (Mary) Grindstaff and his family; and beloved feline companions, Miss Kitty and Professor Longhair.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

No services will be held for Jerry at this time. Instead, his family asks that you take time to listen to music, create art, and always show love to people around you.  Jerry was a frequent patron of the Toledo Libraries, especially the Reynolds Corners Branch. He believed that their commitment to providing people with access to books, music, and other media could change lives. Memorial donations may be made in his honor to the Library Legacy Foundation, located at 325 Michigan Street, Toledo, OH 43604 .