The death of Rev. Father Damian Grimes has left Uganda in deep mourning. At 93, his passing marks not just the end of life, but the loss of a man whose love and dedication transformed many lives. It is hard to find words that truly capture the profound sadness that grips the nation. His absence is a wound that cuts deep, and as we prepare to lay him to rest, there is a collective heartbreak that no words can heal.
Father Grimes was not just a missionary or a headteacher; he was a lifeline for generations of Ugandans. His devotion to Namasagali College, the school he poured 42 years of his life into, created a legacy that will forever be etched in Uganda’s history. For decades, he shaped the minds of thousands of students, leaving an indelible mark on Uganda’s education system and the lives of those fortunate enough to be in his presence. How can we begin to understand the magnitude of this loss?
It is not just about the empty space he leaves behind, but the sudden and jarring realization that we will never again feel the warmth of his guidance, the kindness in his voice, or the wisdom in his teachings. We mourn not only the loss of a great educator but also a mentor, a father figure, and a man who gave his entire heart to this country.
Father Grimes was a beacon of hope for many. In a country facing many challenges, he stood as a symbol of perseverance, compassion, and love. His wish to be buried in Uganda speaks volumes about where his heart truly lay. Despite returning to his homeland of England 24 years ago, his soul never left Uganda. He belonged to this nation, to its people, to Namasagali College, where he nurtured dreams and built futures.
The sorrow felt across Uganda today is unbearable. We are not just saying goodbye to a man, but to a hero whose impact will never be forgotten. Namasagali College, the institution he turned into a center of excellence, will forever be his monument. From academics to sports to the arts, Father Grimes believed in developing the whole person, and through his vision, countless young Ugandans found their paths to success.
His contributions were endless, yet he never sought fame or accolades. He lived for others, teaching, guiding, and inspiring, asking nothing in return. His humility was unmatched, his dedication unwavering. When he received the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1991 and a presidential medal in 2022, they were mere formalities—he was already a hero in the hearts of so many.
The tears that flow across the nation today reflect a grief that is both personal and national. We have lost a man who was the embodiment of kindness, selflessness, and love. As tributes come from all corners, including from the Kyabazinga of Busoga, who called him an “exceptional human being,” the weight of our collective loss becomes even heavier.
Father Grimes was a rare gift to Uganda, and now that gift is gone. His passing is a bitter reminder that even the greatest lights must one day fade. But as we mourn, we must also remember that his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, in the students he mentored, and in the hearts that will forever carry his memory.
Father Grimes, Uganda weeps for you. Your absence is too painful to bear, and you will be missed more than words can ever say. Rest in peace, our beloved father and hero. Your spirit will forever be with us.
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