Seth Groce, Jr.

Seth Sheppard Groce, Jr., born January 21, 1920, in the Volney community, of Burleson County, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 21, 2016, at the age of 96 years, 9 months.

Seth was the son of Seth Sheppard Groce, Sr. and Maude Mae (Nix) Groce. He was one of six children and attended the little one room school in Volney through the 9th grade.

Seth joined the Army on November 14, 1940, and served as an Antitank Gun Crewman during the war. He received numerous commendations including three bronze stars, and a silver star for valor. He was part of E Company, 143rd Infantry Regiment, and 36th Infantry Texas Division. He was honorably discharged on August 17th, 1945.

After his discharge he returned home to Caldwell and in September of 1945 he went to work for Humble Oil. It was there that he met the love of his life and married Valerie E. Thomas, who was on the nursing staff at Humble Oil during that time. Seth and Valerie were married on October 1, 1949. They established their home in Katy, Texas and remained there until his retirement in 1981. Upon his retirement from Humble Oil he and Valerie returned to Burleson County where he enjoyed his activities as a farmer and a rancher.

In 2000 Seth was able to return to Salerno, Italy for a reunion of the 36th Infantry Texas Division. Seth had this to say about his return to Italy. "While there I tried to locate where we landed and the rock wall where we fought the tanks, it had all changed and I was unable to locate the exact spot. Italy was torn up during the War, but now it is beautiful. I appreciate the discipline I received in the army. It helped me, as it helped everyone. But the good Lord had a lot to do with me coming home."

Seth's deep love for his family was apparent and he was the patriarch of the Groce Family. He has left behind a tremendous legacy that will continue on for many generations.

Seth was a member of Warren Lodge #56 AF&AM Masonic Lodge in Caldwell, Texas, and was recently honored by the Lodge with his 70 year pin, of which he was extremely proud and shared this special moment with his beloved family close by his side. Seth was also a member of several other organizations including a member of the Austin Scottish Rite, Ben Hur Shrine Temple, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion Post #451 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars #4458. Seth attended Providence Baptist Church where he was a faithful, dedicated and highly esteemed member of the congregation. Seth would often reflect on cherished memories from his childhood about Providence Baptist, such as traveling by wagon from the Volney community to Providence for Sunday services or two week Brush Arbor revivals with his family.

Seth was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Valerie E. Thomas Groce; parents, Seth & Maude Groce; brothers and sisters-in-law, Hubert & Lila Groce, Horace & Neva Groce, & John Groce; sister and brother-in-law, Bea & Jimmie Schoppe; brother-in-law Travis Mathis; nephew & niece Doyle & Jean Groce.

He is survived by a sister, Sara Nell Groce Mathis; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, and great, great nieces & nephews. Seth not only touched the hearts of his family greatly throughout his 96 blessed years that the Lord gave him here on earth but countless cherished friends and neighbors.

Pallbearers include, Eric Groce, Lamar Groce, Trent Groce, Tyler Groce, James Hemenes, John Hemenes, Brad Meyer, Jon Meyer. Honorary Pallbearers will be Warren Lodge #56.

Military Honors provided by VFW Post #4458.

Memorials may be given to Providence Baptist Church, (please designate your memorial gift to either; Youth, Benevolence or Missions) PO Box 625, Caldwell, Texas 77836 or Providence Cemetery Association, 5212 CR 236, Caldwell, Texas 77836.

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