Walter "Bubba" Groce, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on July 20, 2026. Born on April 25, 1937 in Germantown, Tennessee. Bubba's life was one of dedication, love, and a deep commitment to those he held dear.
Bubba was the beloved son of the later Walter E. Groce II and Daryl Goodwin Dale. He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Earline, with whom he shared many happy years after marrying in New Orleans. Together, they nurtured a loving family and created a legacy of warmth and laughter that endures through their children and grandchildren. Bubba was also predeceased by two of his sisters, Robin Groce Jones and Judy Konos.
Bubba's academic journey took him to De la Salle High School, where he graduated in 1956. He then obtained an ASEE degree in Electrical Engineering from Tulane in 1970 followed by a BSEE in Electrical Engineering from University of Illinois in 1972. His career was marked by a passion for innovation and excellence, a testament to his life's work and the respect he earned among his peers.
Service to his country was important to Bubba, who proudly service in the Louisiana Army National Guard. The values of duty and honor were hallmarks of his character, and he carried those qualities into every aspect of his life.
Bubba was a man of many interests, with a lifelong passion for music that resonated with everyone who knew him. Whether sharing a favorite tune or "jamming" with friends and family, his enthusiasm was infectious.
Bubba's personal qualities were defined by a quiet strength, a generous spirit, and an unwavering commitment to his family. He was known for his kind heart and gentle nature, always ready with a smile or word of encouragement. His presence lit up any room, leaving lasting impressions on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: his children, Karen Groce, Gene Groce (Marcelle), and Richard Groce (Lori); his brother, Very Rev. Archimandite Nikoforos (Groce), and sister, Greta Groce; and his grandchildren, Christina Marullo (Anthony), Garrett Groce, Emily Groce, Cassie Chase, Alexis Brown (Bryan), Kaylin Willeford (Hunter), Aubrey Groce, and Avery Groce. Bubba's legacy also lives on through his great-grandchildren, Caiden Groce, Aspen Tibbils, Eli Tibbils, LeLe Groce, and Luke Ridgley.
Bubba's family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. They invite all who knew him to join in honoring a life well-lived and to remember the joy that Bubba brought into the world. May his soul rest in peace, and may his memory be a guiding light for all who loved him.
A visitation to celebrate Bubba's remarkable life will be held at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA at 11:00 AM on July 31, 2026, followed by a Memorial Mass at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (https://alz.org) in Bubba and Earline's memory.
