Eleanor "Penny" J. (Grimes) Forester

Eleanor "Penny" J. Forester, née Grimes, 82, of Wilmington, Delaware peacefully passed away in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loved ones, on Sunday, October 12, 2025.  Born in Wilmington, Delaware on March 23, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Eleanor (McGrath) Grimes.  Penny was a graduate of Padua Academy, class of 1961.  

Penny will be dearly missed by her loving and devoted husband of 61 years, James J. Forester. Their marriage was a true partnership, grounded in faith, mutual respect and unwavering love. Inseparable in life, Penny and Jim built a home filled with warmth and laughter. Their bond was a lasting testament to the power of love and commitment.

She was a devoted mother to her 11 children:  Jeanmarie Desmond (Tim), Joan Forester (Dennis), Judi Golt (Steve), Julie Taddeo (Paul), Jill Frey (Todd), Jamie Weisenborn (Jason), Janet Chavous (Haven), Jackie Meer (Dave), Jim Forester (Amy), Jennifer Dunfee (Derrick) and Joelle Ryan (Sean); her 21 grandchildren and 2 great granddaughters.  She made raising a large family look effortless. With boundless patience, quiet strength, and unwavering love, she created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and faith.  Her door was always open, and her table never too full. Whether family or friend, all were welcome—because she had a special gift: the ability to make every guest feel like family. 

A proud and faithful member of St. John the Beloved for over 60 years, she raised her children in the Catholic faith that shaped their lives. Her devotion to her family, her church and her community leaves a legacy of love that will continue for generations.

In addition, Penny is survived by her siblings, Joanne Brownlowe (Don), Francis Grimes (Barbara), Kevin Grimes (Linda) and James Grimes (Ellen).   She is also survived by Rev. Raymond Forester, Albert Forester (Mary), Joseph Forester (Anne), John Forester (Lyn), Ann Parsons (Bob), Ellen Perregrino (Angie), George Forester (Diane) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon on Thursday, October 16 at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, DE, where family and friends may visit from 10:00 - 11:45AM. Entombment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

A very special thank you to the Vitas Hospice team for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Penny’s memory can be made to Padua Academy, 905 N. Broom Street, Wilmington, DE 19806.

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