Bill was born Billy Ray Varnell on August 1, 1943 in Monroe, Louisiana. With his later adoption he became the beloved son of Frank Culver Grimland with the new name of William Ray Grimland. He was employed as a truck driver for a concrete company before retirement. He was a member of the Twin Oaks Baptist Church.

Bill was a man who was always willing to try something else. His zest for getting the most out of life was reflected in the way he loved tinkering with anything. He was an accomplished handy man who could fix almost anything and even built his own garage while living in Elk City. He loved the water, whether he was boating, swimming, or fishing, one of his favorite pastimes.

It is not surprising that his favorite television show was Gunsmoke, where old fashioned values are represented. He was the original "good man" and friend to all. His family will always remember him as a simple, big hearted and loving husband, father and grandfather who could always be relied on to be present.

He married the love of his life, Virgie Lois (Joy) Grimland, on April 4, 1974 in Edmond, Oklahoma. In 1976 they made their home in Elk City, staying for nine years. In 1991 they moved to eastern Oklahoma and lived in Okay and Wagoner. Bill later moved to Muskogee, Oklahoma.

Bill departed this life late Friday, February 21, 2025 at Saint Francis Hospital in Muskogee, OK at the age of 81 years. He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Virgie Grimland; his brother, Jim Grimland; and his mother-in-law, Gladys Ready.

Survivors include his children, John Grimland, Julie Grimland, Brandon Grimland, Gala Mixon, William Eslinger, and Rocky Eslinger; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 pm Friday, February 28, 2025 in the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home in Wagoner. The Reverend Dr. Wesley Graver will officiate.