Simon Rey, called Grand-père by Cécile, is the father of Jean-Claude Rey. It is likely Grand-père is a widower, as his wife, who worked as a milliner, is not seen in Cécile's books. Grand-père originally worked as a sailor before settling in New Orleans. He is a kind man with a talent for storytelling, a talent Cécile shares when she volunteers her time at Holy Trinity Orphanage.