Louis Groce

On September 8, 1961, when God entrusted Louis to the

world, a beautiful story began, one filled with love, laughter, and

continuous devotion. Born to Julius Groce and Fannie Bell Weed

Groce, Louis was truly a gift whose presence forever changed the

hearts of those who knew him. Gentle in spirit and boundless in

kindness, he possessed a heart of gold with no limits. He loved his

family wholeheartedly, asking for nothing in return, and carried a

smile that endured regardless of life's challenges.

At an early age, Louis accepted Christ into his life. After

marrying Stephanie, he worshiped alongside her at Damascus

Baptist Church, Fellowship Baptist Church, and Grace Bible Church

under the leadership of Pastor Tim, before becoming a devoted

member of Saint Mary Baptist Church in Lincoln, Alabama. A God-

fearing and faithful man, Louis lived out his beliefs daily and was

an awesome father whose love and guidance shaped his family.

He attended school in Talladega County and in Lincoln,

Alabama. Louis worked for Mr. Bill & Kelly Love on properties,

Union Foundry in Anniston, AL, TCI of Alabama in Pell City and BMW in Alexandria, AL and

worked for contractors as a painter, plumber, yard worker. It was

nothing he wouldn't do.

Louis was one of the kindest people you could ever meet,

yet strong enough to stand his ground when necessary. He was

a wonderful husband, the very best "Papa," and a friend to all,

while always making others happy and keeping laughter alive

wherever he was.

Louis loved sports and was known by many through his time

playing with the Space Cowboys, where he proudly wore #18.

His nickname became just another reflection of his vibrant spirit.

Later, he became known as "Blade." Always willing to lend a

hand, he helped with the children, did odd jobs, and approached

everything with a smile and a joke. He loved having fun especially

at cookouts, music, good food, and sharing time with others

wherever he went.

On January 19, 2026, the story of his life paused in a sacred

way, leaving behind a space that can never be filled, but cherished.

A best friend with a heart of gold, Louis will truly be missed. He

was preceded in death by Betty Kirksey, Shirley George, Jerry Lee

Groce, Jeffery Groce, and Dollie Mae Groce.

Louis leaves behind his loving wife, Stephanie Groce; adopted

grandchild, Myrakel Hunter; sons, Shelton (Tiffany) Sims,

Demetrius (Keela) Sims, Steven (Brittany) Sims; mother, Daisy

Truss; sisters, Rosie Kirksey and April (Eddie) Groce; brothers,

Julius Groce, Lovell Groce, Larry Groce, Kenny Groce and Thomas

Groce; aunt, Emma Jean; uncles, Jerry Lee Groce and James

Smitherman; in-laws, Efrem Smitherman, Deborah Prier, Linda

Luker, Mary Britton, Charlotte Groce, Loretta Marie; special

friends, Corey Miller, Leon Fomby, Wayne Chandler, Bill Kelly

Love, Pastor Tim, Mr. Jim and Susan Todd; friends, Danny Truss

and Shane Howze; a host of other family members and friends.

In person condolences & viewing of Mr. Louis Groce will be 12-6pm, Thursday, January 29,2026 in the Chapel of West Gadsden Funeral Home.

Celebration of life services will be 1:00 pm Friday, January 30, 2026 at the Pine Grove Baptist Church, 500 Drew Ave, Lincoln, Al. Burial in the Adjoining Cemetery.

Premiere Provider of Professional Funeral Services:

West Gadsden Funeral Home, Inc. 256.549.0004