The body of Father Damian Grimes, a towering figure in Uganda's education sector, will be brought back to Uganda from the UK for burial at Namasagali College, where he served as headteacher for over four decades.
Fr Grimes, born on June 11, 1931, in Wakefield, England, passed away earlier this month. A funeral service in his honour was held yesterday in the UK, attended by his family, members of the Mill Hill Fathers, and alumni of Namasagali College.
His body will be flown to Uganda, where pallbearers are expected to escort the procession to his final resting place.
Fr Grimes' tenure at Namasagali College, which began in 1967, left a profound mark on the institution.
Known for his unwavering dedication, discipline, and innovative approach to education, he shaped the lives of many young Ugandans, turning Namasagali into one of the most prestigious schools in the country.
Also read: Fr Grimes to be laid to rest in Namasagali
His promotion of both academic and creative arts, alongside a culture of self-expression and independence, made the college a beacon of educational excellence.
His commitment was acknowledged globally. In 1991, Fr Grimes was awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his exceptional contributions to education in Africa.
In 2022, President Museveni recognized him with a medal for his significant impact on Uganda's educational landscape.
Father Grimes first arrived in Uganda in 1959, four years after his ordination as a priest. He initially taught history at Namilyango College before taking up his transformative role at Namasagali College.
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As a tribute to his enduring legacy, Namasagali College will rename its chapel the Saint Damian Grimes Chapel--a fitting homage to a man who gave so much of his life to the school.
The UK government, Namasagali University, the Mill Hill Mission, and the Grimes family are working together to ensure a dignified and meaningful farewell for Fr Grimes, whose contribution to Uganda's education system will be felt for generations to come.
His burial ceremony will be attended by family, the Mill Hill Fathers, and Namasagali alumni from around the world, uniting to honour a man whose passion for education knew no borders.
Fr Grimes leaves behind a remarkable legacy of selfless service, one that will continue to inspire and shape future generations at Namasagali College and beyond.
