James Jim Richard Groom of Desloge passed away on Friday, March 14, 2014, at the age of 76. He was born on September 15, 1937, at St. Louis, son of the late Johnny Jefferson and Hazel Mignon (Newbill) Groom. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Davey Groom. Jim grew up in the St. Louis/Jefferson County area and lived there until he relocated to St. Francois County in 1978. In 1970, while working as a delivery driver, Jim suffered major injuries in an auto accident which left him disabled for the rest of his life. He never let his disability keep him from doing what he wanted to do and was always determined to live a normal life. Jim never met a stranger and had made many friends throughout the years. He was known as Grandpa to countless children. In his spare time he enjoyed playing poker and was known for taxiing friends and family to wherever they needed to go. Survivors include two children, Dawn (Will) Engler of Farmington and Jim (Angie) Groom, Jr. of DeSoto; seven grandchildren, Andrea Crites, Hillary Engler, Kelly Stegall, Richard Engler, Willie Engler, Robert Groom and Kimberly Martucci; several great-grandchildren; brother, Ralph (Kay) Groom and sister-in-law, Gail Groom. Also surviving are a special grandchild, Steven Sparks; special friends, Steve (Angel) Sparks, Sr. and Mikey Tyree. No services are planned at this time. View the online obituary and share your condolences and memories at cozeanfuneralhome.
Posted on: Sat, 15 Mar 2014 18:09:15 +0000