Orbin Grimes, Jr., age 89, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on October 6, 2026. He was born on November 28, 1936, in Salem, Kentucky, and lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, service, and hard work.
Orbin was the beloved husband of Doris Harnice Grimes, to whom he was married for 71 years. Their long and devoted marriage was a testament to their enduring love and shared commitment to one another through the many seasons of life. Together, they built a family that was a source of great pride and joy to him. He is survived by his wife, Doris; two daughters, Karen Waddell and her husband, John, of Nashville, Tennessee, and Pamela Hawkins and her husband, Steve, of Paducah, Kentucky; and his son, Randy Grimes and his wife, Teresa, of Cumming, Georgia. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by his presence, guidance, and love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orbin Newton Grimes, Sr. and Thelma Guess Grimes, as well as his two brothers, Don Grimes and Herman “Lo” Grimes. Their memories remained a part of his life, and he carried the influence of his family with him throughout his years.
Orbin was a man of remarkable dedication and accomplishment. He retired from Western Baptist Hospital after 34 years of service, where he served as Vice-President of Support Staff and was respected for his leadership, intelligence, and steady commitment to others. Prior to that, he served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. His military service reflected his sense of duty, discipline, and patriotism, and he carried those values into every part of his life. He was also a faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church, where his faith was an important and guiding part of who he was.
Those who knew Orbin will remember him as intelligent, friendly, and spirited. He had a warm presence and a genuine way of connecting with others. He enjoyed reading, and especially treasured the Bible, which he read daily and had read from beginning to end. His devotion to Scripture was a reflection of the strength of his faith and the comfort he found in God’s word. He also enjoyed sports, with a special interest in the St. Louis Cardinals and the University of Kentucky basketball and football teams. These interests brought him enjoyment and conversation throughout his life.
Orbin Grimes, Jr. lived a full and meaningful life centered on faith, family, service, and perseverance. He will be remembered for his steadfast love for his wife and family, his years of honorable service to his country and community, and the kindness and spirit he shared with those around him. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Rev. Jason Browning and Randy Grimes officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery in Salem, Kentucky.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Friendship Baptist Church, 146 South Friendship Road, Paducah, KY 42003, or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
