Richard "Rick" Allen DeGroff

Richard “Rick” Allen DeGroff, 84, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 5, 1941, in Toledo, Ohio, to Herbert and Barbara DeGroff. Known by all as Rick, he was a man full of life, humor, and charm. Rick was a natural jokester who could strike up a conversation with anyone and was rarely serious, always living life to the fullest.

Rick made his mark as the top paper salesman in Memphis, TN, and later retired after 25 years of managing Athens Paper Company. Outside of work, Rick had many passions. He enjoyed boxing and eventually became a trainer, passing along his knowledge to others. He also raised Tennessee Walking Horses and was an avid animal lover.

An enthusiastic golfer, Rick considered the sport his greatest pastime, often playing with family, friends, and business partners. His love for the game was so strong that he even built a putting green at his home to enjoy a round without leaving.

But if you asked Rick about his greatest achievement, he would tell you it was ministering to others. He believed that helping people was the most important thing in life, and he approached every encounter with a warm heart and open arms. Rick had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel as though they were old friends, no matter how long they had known him.

Rick’s vibrant spirit and generous heart will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Barbara; his stepson, Jason Stinson, and his brother, Tom DeGroff.

Rick leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Beth DeGroff; four children: Shari DeGroff, Barbie DeGroff, Susan Johnson (Toby), Clint DeGroff, and his sister, Deborah Benham (Carl). He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Matt (Dena), Sam, Kayla, Caleb (Danie), Austin (Maddie), Coleton, Jake, Emilie, Brandon, Georgia, Anna, Joshua, and three great-grandchildren, Daniel, Abby, and Levi.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial contributions in Rick’s memory to be made St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

A celebration of life will occur on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 4:00 pm at Labelle Haven Baptist Church, 4800 Hwy 305 N Olive Branch, MS 38654.