John C. Grimes

Center. He was born October 16th, 1941 in Clearwater, FL to the late Allen Eugene and Eunice

Mae Grimes.

John earned the honorable distinction of Staff Sergeant serving 12 years in the United States Air

Force, prior to and during the Vietnam War. Stationed in Germany, England, Thailand, Korea,

and several bases stateside before settling in Nashville. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s

degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Education. He taught math at several area

high schools before retiring while teaching at Nashville State Community College. After the

school day, you could find John on the softball fields at Two Rivers Park in Donelson, where he

served as Chief Umpire for several years.

John’s hobbies, coupled with his giving spirit meant those around him felt his generosity. His

love for collecting unique pens were often gifted to friends, new and old, as there were typically

several stashed in his pocket. His affinity for cooking led him to cook for large groups at church,

share a plate during a friendly visit, or man the grill while camping with family. As a sports fan,

particularly baseball, he enjoyed the camaraderie and competition, both as a spectator and a

skilled athlete. John also enjoyed his church family immensely, whether working as an usher,

helping with Sunday School, or dropping in with donuts for fellowship.

John was preceded in death by his best friend and beloved wife, Charlene Grimes.

He is survived by his sons; Shawn (Courtney) Grimes of Mount Juliet, Tennessee; Michael (Holly)

Grimes of Jacksonville, Florida; four grandchildren, Addison and Kate Grimes of Jacksonville

and Kenner and Charleigh Grimes of Mount Juliet; sister Eunette (Stanley) Harris of Nashville,

Tennessee; nephew Michael (Jeannette) Harris; niece Susan (Mike) Bingham.

Visitation will be held 12:00 - 2:00 Saturday, April 2nd followed immediately by a memorial

service and interment at Hermitage Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens.

The family welcomes contributions in remembrance of John as an expression of sympathy to:

Grace Church of the Nazarene Children’s Ministries by means of checks, cash, or online at

gracenaz.com.