Charles Wesley Groom

Charles Wesley Groom was born September 16, 1939, in Phalba, Texas to J.D. and Vivian (Moore) Groom. He fought the good fight and finished his earthly race on Tuesday, July 22, at his home (located on his son’s ranch) in Caldwell, Texas.

Charles graduated from Mabank High School in 1959 where he excelled in sports. He was a member of the mile relay team (alongside younger brothers Ron and Jerry) that set a school record which stood for 63 years. Being quite the storyteller, Charles treasured his Mabank memories and took great pleasure in reliving the days of his youth. Following high school, Charles furthered his education at Jacksonville Baptist College on a basketball scholarship. Two years later, he attended East Texas Baptist University for one year before a life-threatening car accident ended his basketball career in April of 1962. Later in 1987-88, he attended Rhema Bible College in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Charles was employed by Mobil Oil Corporation as a truck driver where he was inducted into the prestigious Million Mile Club honoring excellence and safety. He thoroughly enjoyed traveling the open roads and never hesitated to offer expert driving instructions on how to use your mirrors when backing a trailer.

“Papa” was actively involved in the lives and sports of his three children, 9 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. His unconditional love made each child feel important and accepted. What a legacy! He made certain a basketball goal was the first thing installed at every new address. Coaching tips came free of charge. Additionally, he was famously known for rigging up swings, ziplines, bucking barrels, and high jump/pole vault pits. Although he was the Groom patriarch, Charles was truly a kid at heart. His quiet spirit never completely masked his playful and mischievous ways.

Charles is survived by his wife of 65 years, Tommi (Kendrick) Groom and their 3 children: Kelly (Lesa) Groom of Liberty, MO, Don (Kary) Groom of Caldwell, TX, and Jan Holt of Longview, TX. He was a proud “Papa” to 9 grandchildren: Kendall (Jeremy) Sams of Oak Grove, MO, Kelcie (Ryan) Pierceall of Independence, MO, Ashley (Alex) Kelley of Longview, TX, Justin (Amanda) Groom of Caldwell, TX, Derek Holt of Longview, TX, Daniel Groom of Caldwell, TX, Kami Groom of Durham, NC, Shea Groom of Chicago, IL, and Kiera (Ty) Landrum of Caldwell, TX. He also leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren with one on the way in October. Other survivors include 5 siblings: Ron (Judy) Groom of Athens, TX, Jerry (June) Groom of Fort Worth, TX, Shirley (Jerry) McCloskey of Frisco, TX, Elsie (Mike) McManus of Eustace, TX, and Barbara Dumas of Dallas, TX. Numerous nieces and nephews held a special place in Charles’ heart as well. He was preceded in death by his parents, his youngest brother, David Groom, and his brother-in-law, Clyde Dumas.

A celebration of Charles’ life will be held on Saturday, August 23rd, at the Eubank Cedar Creek Funeral Home in Mabank, Texas. Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm with the funeral following at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Heart for the House (mission outreach ministry) at CaldwellAssembly.com or PO Box 744, Caldwell, TX 77836.

We would like to acknowledge and deeply thank Carley Wilson who was Charles’ caregiver for the final 3 weeks of his life. Also, the Luminous Hospice nurses provided wonderful care as well.