Hugh Wood Groce

Hugh Wood Groce died peacefully on Monday, June 10, 2013, at the John F. Keever, Jr., Hospice Solace Center at the age of 96. Born on September 14, 1916, Hugh was the youngest son of the late Rev. T.A. Groce and Elizabeth Hunt Groce. He was preceded in death by his brothers, J. Robert (Bob) Groce, Thomas A. (Tom) Groce, Alvin L. (Rip) Groce, the Rev. W. Harold Groce, Sr., Willis H. (Bill) Groce, Sr., and Fred F. Groce, Sr. Although he was not expected to live beyond infancy, the nurturing care of his parents, the loving attention of his brothers and their families, and the healing power of God allowed him to grow and become an active and productive member of the community. He lived most of his life with his oldest brother, Bob, at 11 Tampa Avenue, West Asheville, just across the street from his friends and colleagues at Groce Funeral Home, where he spent most of his days. Hugh attended the Plonk School and was a faithful member of Abernethy United Methodist Church until illness forced him to remain homebound. Hugh is survived by a sister-in-law, June B. (Mrs. Fred F.) Groce, eleven nieces and nephews, many great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews. Hugh's recent years were happier and more comfortable largely because of the kind efforts of dedicated caregivers, Ronnie Byrd, Marge Bagwell, and Clara Lou Grant and good neighbors, Mrs. Kathleen Byrd and Larry Byrd. Funeral services will be on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home with the Rev. D. Wesley Austin officiating. Interment will follow at Green Hills Cemetery. His family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Abernethy United Methodist Church, 1418 Patton Avenue, Asheville, NC 28806.