John "Jack" Groome
Beloved Husband, Father and PawPaw
“Jack” was born July 23, 1938 in Charlottesville, Virginia to Estelle and John C. Groome, Sr. He passed peacefully surrounded by family on May 14, 2024 after battling declining health for a number of years.
He married the love of his life, Betty, in 1961 and they moved to Texas for his term in the United States Army. Two months before discharge, he experienced a life changing accident, one that most people would not have endured. Through his determination and strength along with the support of his loving wife he lived long fulfilled life. His strength and resilience is how he lived his life and were the life lessons he instilled in his family.
Following an honorable discharge from the Army, he attended Blue Ridge Community College where he studied Drafting and Technical Drawing. He spent his career as a service manager in the auto industry and upon retirement he along with his family owned Donahues’ Trophy and Sports as well as Draft Auto Sales.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Estelle Groome and John C. Groome, Sr., his brother, Robert Groome and niece, Teresa Groome. He is survived by his wife, Betty, two children, Kimberly Howerton and her husband, Scott, John “Eddie” Groome and his wife, Kelly and grandson, Hunter Howerton and his fiance, Faith Kelso. He is also survived by so many wonderful in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and friends from the racing community all of whom he considered his extended family.
Jack will always be remembered for his love of his family and friends, racing and love of animals. His and Betty’s home was always open to everyone. He cherished his time with his family and friends. Whether it was at family gatherings, somewhere around a race car or by the pond fishing, you could count on his wit to make us laugh and wisdom to make sure we were on the right “track.”
We couldn’t have asked for a better husband, father and grandfather. We will miss him each every day but his memory will live on in the hearts of all that loved and cared for him.
He will be honored at 1:00 p.m. , Friday, May 24, 2024 at Charlton and Groome Funeral Home, 619 Lifecore Drive, Fishersville, Virginia with interment following at Augusta Memorial Park with Military Honors. Immediately following the graveside service, the family welcomes friends and family back to his home for time to gather and celebrate him.
The family deeply appreciates the care provided by the VA Home Based Care team of Rhonda Weinhold, Deb Sumner and Wendy Wyant. They also are grateful for the care received at the Shenandoah House and ask that in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to the Shenandoah House - C/O Augusta Health Foundation,P. O. Box 1000, Fishersville VA 22939.Web:https://www.augustahealth.com/hospice/gifts-bequests
Share memories and condolences at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.