Carolyn (Hance) Groff

Carolyn Hance Groff, 96, a resident of West Hartford, CT since 1948, died peacefully at home on October 27, 2013. She was the devoted wife of Dr. Frank H. Groff for 62 years prior to his death in 2003. She grew up in East Orange, NJ, graduated from Newark State Teachers College, and earned her Master's degree from Central Connecticut State University. She delighted in teaching elementary school for many years, retiring from Charter Oak School in West Hartford in 1983. She was a faithful member of First Church of Christ, Congregational in West Hartford for over 50 years, where she taught church school, was a member of Circle 14, attended the Christian Classics book group, and in recent years served the congregation by sending birthday greetings to the more than 100 church members over the age of 80. In her retirement years she delivered Meals on Wheels and volunteered in local schools. In 2004, Carolyn moved to Chatfield in West Hartford, where she immediately found new friends and joined myriad activities. She also served as President of the Residents' Association. For many years Carolyn and Frank enjoyed Florida's warm February weather at Siesta Key, and they shared fond memories of several trips to Europe. Throughout her long life Carolyn was blessed with good health, a sharp mind, and a contagious optimism that endeared her to her family and many friends. A devoted and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, Carolyn followed all her family's accomplishments and activities with great enthusiasm and pride. She leaves four sons and a daughter: William Groff (Doris Green), James Groff (Barbara), John Groff (Libby), Robert Groff (Diane Frederickson), and Susan Grew (Richard); seven grandchildren: John Groff (Patricia), Carolyn Groff (Nick Holerca), Karen Groff, James Groff (Elizabeth Mondragon-Groff), Marilyn Holmes (Michael), Benjamin Groff, and Christopher Rider (Beatrice). She also leaves five great-grandchildren: Rebecca Groff, William Groff, Eliana Holerca, Elise Denis, and Caitlyn Holmes, as well as other extended family members. She was predeceased by her parents, William and Edna Coney Hance, her sister, Mary Louise Holt, and her brother, William Edward Hance. Carolyn's family is deeply grateful to Erica McDonald for her gentle kindness and care during Carolyn's last years. There will be a service to celebrate Carolyn's life on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at First Church of Christ, Congregational, 12 South Main St., West Hartford, CT. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Carolyn's memory may be sent to Gifts of Music, The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, 10 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT 06106. Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, West Hartford has care of arrangements. For directions and online condolences, please visit www.taylorandmodeen.com.