James Bigbee Grogan

Jack, as he was affectionately known, is survived by his current wife, Jackie Beard-Grogan, two daughters from his first marriage, Frankie (Kristen) Grogan of Silverthorne, CO, Paula Grogan-Newlands of Pittsford, NY.; and grandchildren, Kelsey and Jackson Newlands also of Pittsford, NY. Jack also leaves behind two stepchildren (Debby Hughes and Steve Beard) from his second marriage, along with many other family members, colleagues and friends who will sadly miss him. He is preceded in death by his first wife of over 50 years, Nita Pauline Grogan (d. 2014).

Coming from meager beginnings, Jack was one of 10 children, born to sharecroppers Kenneth Forbes Grogan and Elfie Bigby Grogan. After graduating from High School, Jack enlisted in the Army and served his country until he was honorably discharged in 1952. After military service, Jack embarked on an educational journey to pursue his interest in Microbiology. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from Mississippi College, Jack furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s degree from University of Wisconsin. He then went on to earn his PH. D from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where he later became a Professor of Surgery and member of the faculty from 1963 - 1995. During his respected career, Jack was recognized as being part of the team that developed the serum for heart transplants and for his lectures around the world on the subject. In 1964 he was the recipient of the Strawinski Award from the American Society for Microbiology for outstanding graduate research presentations.

His journey on this earth was one marked by service to his country, duty to his family, and his faith in God. In addition to being a sports fan… “Hotty Toddy Go Rebs”, Jack was also known for his love of the outdoors. As an avid hunter, fisherman, and gardener, Jack knew how to live off the land. There was nothing better than dining on Jack’s famous fried fish and delicious vegetables, freshly caught and harvested from his own pond and garden. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.‍

In lieu of flowers the family ask you consider a donation in Jacks name to First Baptist Church Raymond.

https://fbcraymond.org/give/

The family will receive friends and family on Monday, February 10th at the First Baptist Church of Raymond located at 207 Palestine Rd. Raymond, MS. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am with the funeral at 11:00. Following the funeral, Jack will be laid to rest at Harmony Cemetery in Crystal Springs, MS at 2:30 pm.