Dale Eugene Grinstead's Obituary
Dale Eugene Grinstead, 93, was called home to be with Jesus on March 27, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida.
Dale was born on August 19, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Otti R. and Jewell Grinstead. He grew up in Detroit, Michigan, along with five siblings in a home filled with love and faith.
Dale enlisted in the Air Force when he was nineteen years old and served for four years. He was stationed in the upper peninsula of Michigan at a Northern Defense Radar Base, where he was in the Air Police and also worked in the Motor Pool. He also served a tour in Korea for a year before he was discharged, returning back to Detroit.
In 1952, Dale met the love of his life, Eileen F. Martin at the wedding of a mutual friend. They were later married in December 1952 in Calumet, MI. where they had their son, Norman Grinstead. Dale and Eileen have been blessed with two grandsons, Dennis (Kate) Grinstead of Longs, SC, and Chris Grinstead of Lakeland, FL. He was the proud great-grandfather of five and great-great-grandfather of two. He also had five step-great grandkids and one step-great-great grandchild. Dale also had many very dear friends which are also family.
Prior to moving to Florida in 1966, Dale attended Brightmoor Tabernacle from birth and sat under the ministry of Rev. Bond Bowman, the only pastor he ever knew for 33 years. He ministered in the church choir, mixed quartettes, and was a soloist. He then ministered with the Brightmoor quartette for 10 years. Also, he was active with the CA’s (youth group) as an officer and worship leader.
Dale established and operated a successful architectural and engineering supply business throughout central Florida for over thirty years.
Dale was an active and faithful member of Southside Assembly, Lakeland, FL. He served in almost every area of church ministry including 20 years on the church board, many years as a member and soloist of the church choir as well as singing in various quartettes. Dale finally, after many years, had the opportunity to sing with his son Norman in a quartette at Southside Assembly which was something near and dear to both of their hearts. Dale sang for many weddings, funerals, and special occasions including singing The Lord’s Prayer for both of his grandson’s, Dennis and Chris’ weddings.
For seventeen years Dale worked with Pastor Don Richardson and the Super Seniors. He was a church greeter, Sunday School teacher and assistant, worked maintenance and any other assignments he was asked to do. He worked in Men’s Ministries, trips and worked on thirteen overseas missions’ trips, and faithfully unlocked the church doors for the men’s prayer and study group until his death.
Dale loved Jesus with his whole heart and was passionate about sharing Jesus with everyone he met. He studied his Bible and prayed daily for his family, friends, church family, missionaries, and any other needs he was aware of. He was a man of God…strong in faith, trust and love. He left a legacy and an example that will live into eternity.
A memorial service for Dale will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Southside Assembly of God, 4750 Cleveland Heights Boulevard, Lakeland, FL, 33813.
At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Southside Assembly Missions or Legacy Funds.
After the service, everyone is invited to remain for a time of visitation with Eileen, Norm, family, and friends. A light meal will be provided.
Interment will be family only on a different date.
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