David C. Groves

Rev. David C. Groves, age 92, passed away Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Good Shepherd Hospice in Auburndale. Born April 26, 1925 in Spartanburg, SC. Rev. Groves was a resident of Bartow for since 2007, moving from Valrico, FL. He received his Doctorate at Duke University School of Divinity after receiving his Bachelors degree from Florida Southern College. He was a Methodist minister for 68 years with Methodist Churches throughout Florida, retiring in 1968, but continued serving several congregations well after retirement. He was a member of the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. He was a highly decorated WW II Army Veteran, receiving two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star & a Combat Infantry Badge. He was a Mason. He was a author and publisher. Rev. Groves is preceded in death by his parents: Samuel & Lois Groves and a sister: Charlotte Zimmerman. He is survived by wife his wife of 33 years, Marilyn Kelley Groves, a son: Woody Groves (Katie), four daughters: Nell Nelson, Alice Groves, Angelia Crews, & Kelley McKinnes, five grandchildren: Steven Nelson (Heather), Chris Nelson (Julie), Audra Froome (Paul), James McKinnes & Kyle McKinnes; four great grandchildren: Riley, Ella, Liam & Hal. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 8, 2017 at 3:00 P.M. at the Asbury United Methodist Church, 1650 S. Jackson Ave, Bartow. Interment will follow at Bartow Wildwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Asbury United Methodist, Bartow.