1878 WILLIAM GRIMSLEY, (Hosiery Manufacturer).
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Son of Gabriel Grimsley of Leic. where he was born 24 October 1832 and descended from the Grimsleys of Bitteswell, Leics. Born of humble parents, he received anything but a high class education, in fact he was, as he himself stated in the council chamber at the time of his election as mayor, a "self made man." By his industry he rose from the ranks, and like many of his colleagues, he gained the esteem and respect of all with whom he came in contact. He was elected a member of the council for West St. Mary's Ward 1 November 1872, an alder~ man 9 November 1877 and mayor 9 November 1878. He married in 1859 Jane, second daughter of AId. Robert Ellis, having in 1852 joined the firm of Messrs. F. & J. Ellis, glove manufacturers, but appears to have left no issue.
Aid. Grimsley's mayoralty was the shortest on record.
No sooner had he been elected than he was taken unwell, and his death, unlooked for, took place only twelve days afterwards at his residence, Southfields, on Thursday afternoon, 21 November 1878, in his forty,seventh year. The funeral took place at the Welford Road Cemetery on Tuesday, 26 November, and was of the most im, pressive character, being attended by the civic authorities and by thousands of the townspeople. M.I. there. His will, bearing date 15 October 1867, was proved at Leic. 6 December 1878 by Jane Grimsley of 68, Regent Street, Leic., widow, the relict and sole executrix, to whom administration was granted. Personal estate under £7,000. Resworn September 1879 under £6,000.
