Candy Grounds

Born October 4, 1949 in Temple, Texas to parents Jane and Gilbert Beach and older siblings Cindy and Steve Beach. Candy grew up as a “military brat” moving many times. She always spoke with most nostalgia about her time as a child playing on the beaches of New York.

Candy is survived by her devoted husband of more than 54 years, Gary Grounds; three daughters Niki Agans, Dana Wood, and Deidra Roy; her sons-in-law, Todd Agans, Jay Wood, and Thomas Roy.

Known to her grandchildren, as GiGi, she was amazingly loving and fiercely protective of her babies, Tori Agans, Ronin Agans, Raleigh Agans, Gavin Romano, Mason Romano, and Hollyn Roy. Candy is also survived by sister Cindy Eckert and brother Steve Beach.

After graduating high school, Candy attended the University of Texas Arlington (UTA). After two years at university, she met Gary Grounds on a blind date, and the match was made in the stars. After many moves, Candy and Gary settled in Rendon, Texas to raise their girls. Candy’s devotion to her girls was evident through her unyielding presence, at every volleyball game, basketball game, and every game they cheered.

Gary and Candy moved to Springfield, IL where they both worked for Horace Mann Insurance where Candy developed a reputation as a rating guru. While in Springfield Candy poured her love into the children at the Mini O'Beirne Crisis Nursery where she spent many evenings and weekends helping young children struggling with stable homes feel love and security.

Lake Frankston, Texas became Gary and Candy’s community. A place of joy and safety for our entire family. She dreamed of creating a family home near the water where her grandchildren could come and build memories to last a lifetime. She did provide this gift to our families.

Candy made an impact on all who met her. Her smile was infectious and her sweet words of support were abundant. As Gary likes to say, Candy was a Texas version of Mother Teresa. She was surrounded by love and leaves behind a legacy rooted in family which she devoted herself with greatness. She will be forever missed.

A memorial service is scheduled for Monday, February 23 at 1:30 at the Lloyd James funeral home located at 1011 E 1st St, Tyler, TX 75701.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honor Candy, the family suggests supporting the children’s charity, Mini O'Beirne Crisis Nursery of Springfield, Illinois where Candy devoted her time.

MiniOBeirne.org/donate