Jimmy Grammer

Jimmy Walker Grammer, born on November 24, 1935, in Bells, Tennessee, peacefully departed this life on February 13, 2025. As a true son of Bells, Jimmy was an example of hard work, entrepreneurship, and unwavering commitment to God, family, and community.

Jimmy attended UT Knoxville for 1 year then transferred to Memphis State University as a starting left-handed pitcher. Jimmy’s professional journey began in the food industry. He served as a Sales Manager for the Continental Baking Company in Memphis. He then bought the Dairy Crème in Bells, TN, as a means to bring his family back to Crockett County, where he and Wanda were born and raised. From there, he built the Bar-be-cue Hut from the ground up, after they had outgrown the Dairy Creme. Jimmy's entrepreneurial spirit did not stop there; he and Wanda owned several grocery businesses, a trucking company, a donut shop, a car lot and more. His businesses were always successful due to his hands-on approach, and his tireless work ethic. Jimmy not only managed his businesses but also worked hard alongside his employees, instilling the same ethic in his children who often worked with him.

Jimmy's life was not solely defined by his work though. He loved taking his family on camping trips, going deer and quail hunting, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Throughout his life, He was a source of joy for his family and friends. His love for singing, dancing, and telling jokes brought laughter and happiness to all who knew him. His enduring love story with his wife of 67 years, Wanda Sherrod Grammer, was a testament to his commitment and devotion. He was a loving father to children Jeff Grammer, Julie (Paul) Utterback, and Janet Grammer. He was also a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. Jimmy was a man of faith, serving as an Elder at the Bells First Christian Church.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Wanda Sherrod Grammer of 67 years; children Jeff Grammer, Julie (Paul) Utterback, and Janet Grammer; sister, Carolyn Pope; grandchildren Peyton (Blake) Taylor, Sydney (Dane) Coles, Grayson Utterback, Carly Utterback, and Kevin Grammer; and great-grandchildren Brooks Taylor, Sonny Taylor, and Harper Coles. He was preceded in death by his parents, Odell and Frances Grammer, and his infant daughter, Sherry Denise Grammer.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 1:00pm at Bells First Christian Church, located at 5334 College Street, Bells, Tennessee, 38006. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 2:30pm, officiated by Randy Jetton. The burial will take place at Walnut Hill Cemetery immediately following the services.

Pallbearers for the service will be Eric Jordan, Junior Jordan, Larry Lonon, Scott Pearson, Paul Utterback, Grayson Utterback, and Joe Cole. Bobby Phillips, Ronnie Joe Clark, Blake Taylor, Dane Coles, David Pope, and Steve Pope will serve as honorary pallbearers.

In Lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to Bells First Christian Church.

We encourage you to share your favorite memories of Jimmy and upload photos to his memorial page, offering comfort and tribute to a life well-lived. Jimmy's legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will continue to inspire us all.