Jim Grissom conducts the Falkville Christmas in the Park in December 2012. He was the emcee of the event ever since it started in 1997. | Brent Maze

The sudden and unexpected death of Falkville businessman Jim Grissom on Saturday left the community with big shoes to fill.

Grissom, 73, was a staunch supporter of Falkville—business, education, government, church. civic organizations—for more that 40 years.

The was owner of Grissom Real Estate, a Mason, planning commission member, athletic booster, library board member and a former Jaycee and city councilman.

“I’ve known him for more than 50 years,” said Falkville Mayor Bob Ramey. “And he’s been actively involved in so many of the good things that have happened here during that time.”

“My first recollection of him was when he operated a used car lot on Highway 31,” Ramey added. “I bought my first car from him after graduating from high school.”

“He had a great personality and was successful in a variety of business ventures. His death is a big loss for our community.”

“I served with him on the library board and we worked together on many community projects over the years,” said retired teacher Rhona Summerford. “I can’t recall any facet of community life in which he didn’t take an interest and do his part to help out.”

“I’ll have fond memories of him when we have our next Christmas in the Park,” she said.

“He was master of ceremonies and always did such a wonderful job.”

He had a wonderful family and was a class act as a person,” she added. “His death is a great loss to Falkville.”

Grissom’s funeral was Tues., Sept. 10, at Roundtop Community Church.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Tucker Grissom, three children, four grandchildren, two brothers and a sister.