Katherine Cousin-Grimmett

Katherine Irene Cousin-Grimmett, known affectionately as Irene, was born in Detroit, MI to Annie Lou Ford and the late James Edward Mitchell, Jr. She attended Chadsey High School and pursued further education at the College of the Desert in California. Irene met her husband, Lawrence Grimmett, during her teenage years, and they married when she was 18, marking the beginning of a loving union that would have celebrated 40 years this year.

In her professional life, Irene had a fulfilling career at WellPoint, where she dedicated almost 15 years of diligent service. Beyond her work, Irene embraced her passions: cooking, baking, and jewelry making. She found joy in adventurous road trips with loved ones and was a dedicated prayer warrior, offering fervent intercession for those in need. Irene's faith journey began early, and she wholeheartedly served Christ, finding her spiritual home at Fairfield Missionary Baptist Church. A beacon of warmth and kindness, Irene never met a stranger, impacting countless lives with her genuine care. As an ordained deaconess, she faithfully served in various church communities.

Irene cherished her role as a loving wife to Lawrence, and a devoted mother to their children, Lenard Grimmett and LaVonda Vaughn (Mike Vaughn). Her grandchildren, Miracle, Bishop, and Logan, held a special place in her heart, as did her godson, Josef Kelly. Irene was a beloved sister to Frison Tucker (Sharon), Altanette Williams, James Cousin (Sharon), Denise Ford, Isaiah Ford, Ursula Leonard (Bernard), Karin Sweeney, Idella Washington, Elijah Thompson, Jr. (Pamela), John Frank Thompson (Dionne), Joyce Stacey, Terry Grimmett (Heidi), Imuri Grimmett, Gwen Jenkins (Artie B) and James McLeod (Monica). Preceding her in death were her dear brother, Clifton Cousin and her sweet sister, Janet Evette Slay. She took on a maternal role for her siblings and cousins, offering loving care, discipline, and guidance.

In addition to her siblings, Irene held dear a large extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. Her legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to God will continue to inspire all who were privileged to know her. Irene Cousin-Grimmett leaves behind a void that will be deeply felt, yet her memory will be forever cherished and her spirit forever remembered.