Funeral services for Jerry O’Neal Groce, age 84, of Fayetteville, TN, will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home with Bro. Don Hudson and Bro. David England officiating. Burial will follow in Booneville Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Higgins.
Jerry was born at home in Lincoln County, TN, to the late William Thomas and Ruby Gladys Grammar Groce. He grew up in the Bellville community and graduated from Central High School in 1958.
A natural auctioneer and proud voice of the local farming community, Jerry spent many years at Farmer’s Auction, where his love for cattle, stockyards, and sales became not just a livelihood but a lifelong passion. He frequently offered his auctioneer talents at fundraisers across the county, always willing to help a good cause.
Jerry had a big heart and a zest for life. He loved to cook, garden, and especially enjoyed turning the cucumbers he grew into sweet pickles—though he gave nearly all of them away, saying he couldn’t eat them himself. He loved to eat just as much as he loved to cook and never passed up a good meal or the chance to share one with friends and family.
With a dry sense of humor, a love for dancing, and a soft spot for children, Jerry made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He cared deeply for his family and those around him, always ready with a story, a joke, or a helping hand.
Jerry passed away on August 2, 2025, at Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital. Waiting for his arrival was his beloved dog, Kurly.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Lynchburg Nursing Center for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Jerry. Their kindness and support will always be remembered.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Mary Jackson Groce; his son, J.J. Groce and wife Lori; granddaughters, Megan and Kali Groce; special nieces, Nancy Rogers, Jennifer Turpen, and Lindsey Smith; along with many other extended family members and dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fabulous Fifties Foundation, P.O. Box 934, Fayetteville, TN 37334.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jerry O’Neal Groce.
Mary- so sorry for the loss of Jerry. May God put His loving arms around you & the family during this very difficult time 🙏❤️
Jerry was a good man and a very good auctioneer always willing to help everyone. As a young auctioneers he helped me. He had a great sense of humor. He will be missed. Prayers for the family.
Mary and family, I am sorry. Jerry was a life long friend of the Moyers family..
Mary, So sorry for your loss
I will be praying for you
Ms. Mary,
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Jerry’s passing. Prayers for you during this time of grief.
Howell Church of Christ family
Debra McKee
Mary, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort. Kay & Anthony Honey
Jerry was a good friend as well as my classmate! much sympathy and love to his family! Mary, I know how much you will miss him
Mary, I am thinking of you during this difficult time. I know what you are going thru. Remember all the good times you all have had. He’s in a better place now. Pain Free. Love you and J.J. May God be with you!
Ms. Mary & Family
We are so sorry for your loss, you will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Tim & Connie Porter
Bill Hampton
To J. J. and Lori and Groce Family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. It is never easy to give up our loved ones. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Love, Ted & Donna Cartwright
So very sorry for your loss, Mary! Praying for strength and comfort for you and your family! He was a fine man and I remember as a youngster how funny he was! ❤️
Mary I am thinking of you in the loss of your Jerry, the love of your life.
Prayers to Ms Mary and all the family
I’ll never forget the night Jerry and Mary cooked all night in Lynchburg at Frontier Days in our BBQ contest. This is when I learned what a fun loving person Jerry was. Mary I know you will miss him but not like he was the few months. He’s in a much better place now with no suffering.
I am so sorry for your loss. Jerry never met a stranger. He was a great guy. Prayers for Mary and his family.
Mary, I am so sorry to learn of your loss. May you be comforted by all the sweet memories you share with your family and friends. Much love.
Our deepest condolences.