Joe Grimes was born in Dickson County, Tenn., October 1, 1809, being the sixth of thirteen children born to the marriage of John and Margery (Carmack) Grimes. Both parents were natives of Virginia; the father was born January 2, 1775, and the mother in 1779. Our subject remained on the farm with his father until February 12, 1835, when he was married to Huldah Jane Walker. To them were born four children: Susan E., born March 16, 1836; John P., born October 10, 1842; Cornelius, born June 30, 1845, and Mary M., born February 17, 1849. The wife dying September 22, 1875, our subject was married to the widow of Gabriel Andrews. At different times Mr. Grimes served as constable, deputy sheriff and trustee of his county, serving in each office about two years. He is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and is a Democrat in his political views.