RUSSELL GROVES
Russell Smith Groves, 90, of St. Clairsville, Ohio died Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at The Inn at Library Way, Hillard, Ohio. He was born May 11, 1934, in Egypt Valley, Ohio, a son of the late Earl and Hazel Williamson Groves.
He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and love that touched everyone he met. Russell devoted his life to hard work and perseverance rooted in the Egypt Valley farming community, Grange and FFA. He was a welder and jack-of-all-trades working for multiple employers including Stewart’s Mobile Homes, Consolidation Coal Company, and Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel. He was self-employed through Groves Pumpkin Farm and home handyman business with projects ranging from installing trailer hitches to painting and remodeling homes, to baking nut rolls. Russell served the community in many ways, first and foremost, helping a friend or neighbor in need. He was a member of the Saints Club and the East Richland Friends Church, where he served as an usher. His joy in life extended to his hobbies, including jigsaw puzzles and tinkering in his shop. Russell was a devoted husband to Lois and his family was the center of his world. He was especially adored by his grandchildren, who fondly remember riding on his tractors, building forts, and enjoying the warmth of bonfires in the backyard.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Lois Rine Groves; two sisters, Dorothy Murphy and Martha Stewart; and two brothers, Bernard and Charles Groves.
Russell is survived by his children, Sharon (Dino) Panepucci of Midland, Michigan, Linda (Mike) Coates of Plain City, Ohio, and Joseph (Val) Groves of Knightdale, North Carolina; nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Carol Ann Groves of Barnesville, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will be received on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Toothman Funeral Home, St. Clairsville, OH. Visitation begins at 10:00 am and service officiated by son-in-law Mike Coates at 12:30 pm. Burial will follow at 2:00 pm in Holly Memorial Gardens, Pleasant Grove, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, honor Russell by helping a friend or neighbor, or contribute to a charity serving those in need such as Valley Hospice or Belmont County Meals on Wheels.
Arrangements are entrusted to Toothman Funeral Home, St. Clairsville.