John Jay Grove

John Jay Grove passed away on May 16, 2026, at the age of 84. He was born on November 28, 1941, in Adena, Ohio, to Elmer Ray Grove and Rosalie Margaret Sancreek. John graduated Adena High School in 1959 and attended Muskingum College briefly before enlisting in the United States Air Force, starting as a principle French horn player in the Air Force Band career field. Throughout his 28-year career, John had several assignments. His journey began at Scott Air Force Base (AFB), Illinois, where he met his lovely bride of 59 years, Gail Earleen McLane who blessed him with two children, Jay and Andrea. From Illinois, the Air Force sent him to Germany where he traveled throughout Europe. From Germany he was stationed at McGuire AFB where he attained the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. There his love of Jazz and natural leadership abilities furthered his musical journey, becoming the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the Jazz Ensemble. John would continue in this role as he was transferred to Elmendorf AFB, Alaska and promoted to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. From Alaska he was sent to his last duty station, Robins AFB, Warner Robins, Georgia where his musical journey would have him share the stage with the likes of actress Maureen O’Hara, and Jazz legends Rob McConnell and Lena Horn. John was a proud veteran whose Air Force career allowed him to share his love of music, particularly Jazz, with audiences around the world and introduce him to the love of his life, Gail, who was always by his side. In retirement John was very active in his community, serving in the food bank ministries, singing in the choir, and teaching Sunday School. Throughout his band career and after, he made lifelong friends who he loved dearly.

John was a loving, proud father and grandfather. Besides Gail, he is survived by his children and their spouses, Jay & Monica Grove and Andrea Grove & Chris Scholl. He will be long celebrated by his grandchildren, Annaliese McLean & Alex Grove and Ethan and Ryan Scholl. To them, he was a steadfast role model. As one said, while your health may slow down, jazz never stops. Life is limited. Jazz is eternal.

John will be honored with a Memorial Gathering at Huntt Funeral Home, 3035 Old Washington Rd, Waldorf, Maryland 20601, on May 23, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 am at the same location. John will be interred with Military Honors on June 30th at 11:15 at Maryland Veterans Cemetery Cheltenham, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, Maryland 20623. Instead of flowers, please make donations to a cancer research organization of your choice.