Elma Berniece Groves passed away early Saturday morning, October 14, 2017 and entered the presence of her Lord and Savior. She was blessed with over 95 years on this earth.
Berniece was born to Coral and Hattie (Collins) Dyer on January 30, 1922 in Eaton. She graduated from Galeton High School in 1940. She lived her entire life in the Eaton/Galeton area.
She married Ray Groves on February 4, 1942. They were married 61 years and farmed together until Ray’s passing in 2003. Ray and Berniece were proud to be selected to be Grand Marshalls of the Eaton Community Days in 1992.
Berniece was a dedicated wife and mother. She loved to garden, with her specialty being “Georgia beans”. She was a wonderful host to all who came into her home. Georgia beans (cooked with bacon grease), sweet corn, cantaloupe and watermelon were on her table often. Her grandchildren have many fond memories of spending time at Grammy’s house.
At an early age, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior, expressing a strong faith throughout her life. She was involved in the Eaton Baptist Church in various roles. She loved and taught many young kids about Jesus in her Sunday School class.
Berniece is survived by three daughters, Sharon Rhoades of Eaton, Janice (Kerry) Bailey of Kansas City, MO and Marsha (Dale) Trowbridge of Eaton; 7 grandchildren, Tim (Nila) Rhoades of Eaton, Matt (Bri) Bailey, Sara Bailey, Abby (David) Henderson all of Kansas City, MO, Cory (Becky) Trowbridge of Peculiar, MO, Nathan (Anna) Trowbridge of Eaton and Marissa (Andrew) Elliott of Miller SD; 12 great-grandchildren; her sister, Reba Siegrist, and sister-in-law, Phyllis Dyer.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Coral and Hattie Dyer; her husband, Ray and her brother, Bob Dyer.
Berniece’s family would like to thank Grace Pointe staff and her family and friends for their care and concern over the past weeks. Memorial gifts can be made to First Baptist Church of Eaton.
Please note: Viewing will be held on Tuesday evening October 17th from 4:30 to 6:30pm at the First Baptist Church in Eaton at 228 2nd Street. The graveside service will be held Wednesday October 18th at 1pm at the Eaton Cemetery. The memorial service will be held on Wednesday afternoon, October 18th at 2:00pm at Eaton Evangelical Free Church at 1325 3rd Street.
An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.moserfuneralservice.com.