Billy Ray Groce

GROCE

YADKINVILLE - Mr. Billy Ray “Bill” Groce, 78, of Longtown Road passed away peacefully Saturday, September 7, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Groce was born February 2, 1946 in Yadkin County to the late Burley Bilson and Lola Mae Whitaker Groce. He was a member of Swaims Baptist Church, a graduate of Jonesville High School Class of 1964 and retired from R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company with 36 years of service at the Archer Plant. Mr. Groce grew up farming and continued working in his love of farming throughout his adult life. He also enjoyed restoring antique cars including his A-Models, T-Models, and his 1963 Chevrolet. His greatest love however, was his family, especially spending time with his beloved granddaughters. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife of 51 years, Sandra Vestal Groce; his son, Joseph Martin “Joey” Groce; and 3 brothers, Roger Groce, Gerald Groce, Harvey Groce. Surviving are his devoted daughter, Tracy Dianne Groce Anglin; his granddaughters, Alexandra Adaire “Allie” Anglin and fiance’, Garvey Cheek; Madeline Kate “Maddie” Anglin, Aubrey Paige Weaver; great-granddaughter, Emorie Adaire Cheek; sisters-in-law, Judy Groce, Phyllis Groce, Cheryl Bledsoe; and several special nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 4-5 PM Tuesday at Gentry Family Funeral Service on Little Mountain Road in Jonesville. His funeral service will follow the visitation at 5 PM in the Gentry Family Chapel by Rev. Gordon Macemore. Burial will follow in the Swaims Baptist Church Cemetery. The family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and staff of Mountain Valley Hospice for all the loving care given to Mr. Groce. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Swaims Baptist Church, Swaims Church Road, Hamptonville, NC 27020.