Joseph “Joe” McDonald Grimes

Joseph “Joe” McDonald Grimes

May 1, 1942 – March 14, 2025

Joseph McDonald Grimes passed away on March 14, 2025, at the age of 82. He was born on May 1, 1942, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, one of eleven children of Mr. Garbe and Bernice Grimes.

After graduating from McKinley Senior High School in 1960 in Baton Rouge, Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force, and began a period of service that would last 24 years.  After Basic Training, he qualified as a Security Policeman and started his Air Force career at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyoming.  During his long military career, he completed tours of duty in at RAF Upper Heyford, England, Vandenberg AFB, California, RAF High Wycombe, England, Malmstrom AFB, Montana, Offutt AFB, Nebraska, RAF Alconbury, England, and Minot AFB, North Dakota. He also spent a year at Tuy Hoa Air Base, Vietnam. He served in Security Police, and as a Special Agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

In May 1974, after 14 years of distinguished enlisted service, Joe earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the College of Great Falls. He then completed Air Force Officer Training School at Lackland AFB, Texas, and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in October 1974.  He served 10 additional years in the Air Force as a Security Police officer before retiring in October 1984, after 24 and a half years of honorable service to his country.  After retiring from military service, he continued his life of dedication and protection in another 20-year career as Manager of Corporate Security for the Omaha Public Power District.

Joe was a devoted father and grandfather, a proud Air Force veteran, a good friend to many, and a person whose presence could light up any room.  He was known for his strength, leadership, and commitment to excellence, but also for his infectious energy and ever the life of the party — bringing joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories wherever he went.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 43 years, Patricia Ewing-Grimes; his parents, Garbe and Bernice; brothers: Willie, Leon, Moses and Alvin, sisters, Delores and Melvina; and his grandson, Anthony.

He is survived by his children: Darryle, Lisa, Alvin, Bradford and Christopher; grandchildren: Nathalia, Antonio, Carter, Erin, Ainsley, Karmyn and Lilly; brothers, Leroy and Ronald, sisters, Willia Belle and Betty; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and dear friends.

Joe’s legacy is one of family, loyalty, service, and celebration. His love of life and his ability to bring people together will be missed dearly, but remembered always.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha.  

To view a live broadcast of the Service, please visit wwwheafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.

Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com