Graveside services for Lillie P. Groce, 84, will be 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2020, at Beck Memorial Gardens. Pastor Eugene Jacobs will officiate. Visitation will be 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2020.
On November 13, Mrs. Groce passed away at Citizens Baptist Medical Center. Lovingly known within the community as “Lady”, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, family member and friend. A proud mother of son Michael and the grandmother of August, she enjoyed family gatherings and spending time with close friends. Her devotion extended to her church, Union Springs Baptist Church in which she served as a deaconess and a cook for many events.
After 30 years of dedicated service, Mrs. Groce retired from Citizens Baptist Medical Center. She was a graduate of Talladega County Training School, currently Talladega County Central High School. Mrs. Groce continued her education at Alabama State College, and subsequently married Gus Groce.
Mrs. Groce was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Gus T. Groce; her parents, Burl and Daisy Beck; six sisters; and three brothers.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and LaVonna Groce of Georgia; a loving grandson, August Groce; a brother Robert (Frances) Calhoun of North Carolina; sisters-in-law Annie Laura Beck and Laura Groce; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
I recall being in your kindergarten class in the early 60's.You were my very first teacher.You taught us how to count, you taught us our 'ABC's.You taught us our colors.And you would read to us in that little classroom that was hot in the fall and cold in the winter.You taught us discipline,and how to have a good time,and how to improvise.Perhaps we didn't have all the advantages that the 'other' schools had because of the segregation of the day. But we had you,Mrs.Groce,and you taught us well.Your teachings produced productive citizens for all walks of life,Sevicemen,entrepreneurs...even lawyers.You taught us not to cry. And you gave us a motto -'Not finished,just begun.' Now, looking back,I wouldn't change a thing,because those lessons made us the men and women that we are today.So ,thank,you Mrs.Groce,for all you did to start us on our way.Thank you so very much for all you did,Mrs.Groce and know that l love you.Reginald L.Swain (Cheese) Rock Hill,SC
Michael, I was saddened to hear of the news of your Mother's passing. There are never any words one can offer when you lose your rock. I am not going to try and fill that space because I greatly appreciate that the grief can be staggering. But believe me when I say you are more prepared for your own life's journey because you have the strength of her love. Mrs. Groce was such a wonderful, tell it like it is, don't take no crap from no one type of woman. And she was so very proud of you. Every time I would run into her on my trips to Talladega she would first cross exam me on what was going on in my life and then she would proudly tell of your accomplishments with work and family. She was so proud of you Michael. I extend my heart felt condolences to you and your family. Know that every gift she has given to this world is exemplified in you.
Warmest Regards,
Jimmy F. Robinson, Jr.
I was Mrs.Lillie's mail carrier for the past 6yrs...she was always such a pleasant lady, whenever she got packages I had to come in a sit a minute...my husband Stevie cut her grass for a few years and he would always sit a spell as well. She will be missed so much!!!
My all time favorite aunt. I will continue to listen to your advice and follow your instructions for the rest of my life and beyond. You were a lifesaver for my mom. You were the emotional doctor for all of your brothers and sisters. God made you the perfect person. Love you, Dwayne
Rest on Mrs. Lillie. My condolences to her family * friends.
There are no words to express the love and gratitude in our hearts for our dear Aunt Lady. The love and kindness she shared and treasured for us (family, friends, and others alone her journey), will always be a part of our lives. We will deeply miss our time spent with her and the works the done so gracefully. Her passing is a testament of Gods promise John 14:1-3 "I will come again". May the presences of the lord provide comfort to all of you in the days and night of bereavement. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Brown Family (Hattie, Michael and Son's
My Condolences.When I was a child she bought me a Coloring book. And her and I would color together. She would also read Story books to me. You will be greatly missed. RIP Aunt Lillie. I will remember that Laugh of your. Alice Prather Chapman, Gary, In.
My Condolences.When I was a child she bought me a Coloring book. And her and I would color together. She would also read Story books to me. You will be greatly missed. RIP Aunt Lillie. I will remember that Laugh of yours.
Love you miss you - hope you and Daddy are having fun in Heaven with the rest.....
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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