JD Groce

Yadkinville Mr. JD Groce, 89, passed away Sunday, January 15, 2017 at his home. Mr. Groce was born September 16, 1927 in Yadkin County to Dewey and Lillie Macemore Groce. He was a veteran of the US Army and spent his life farming. Mr. Groce enjoyed playing piano, bass guitar, and other instruments, playing with several gospel groups. He attended Gospel Way Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, Mr. Groce was preceded by his first wife, Frances Key Groce; a sister, Mary Brantley; a brother, Arvil Groce; and a nephew, Bobby Groce. He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Hazel Tilley Groce; two stepsons, Ken (Stephanie) Tilley and Lyle (Betty) Tilley; four step granddaughters, Madison, Laikyn, and Emerson Tilley, and Samantha Jennings; a step great grandson, Bradley Jennings; two nephews, Frankie (Linda) Groce and Dewey (Pat) Brantley; and special friends, Roy Eddleman and Spencer Snow. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00PM, Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Gentry Family Chapel with Pastor Ken Tilley and Roy Eddleman officiating. Burial will follow at Turners Creek Baptist Church cemetery with military honors provided by NC National Guard Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00PM prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gospel Way Baptist Church, 1916 Gospel Way Church Rd Yadkinville, NC 27055. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Carol Albright, Dr. Paul Gulley, and the staff of the Cancer Center for the loving care given to Mr. Groce. Online condolences may be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Groce family.