Mr. John Reece Groves, 71, of Hickory, passed away on Thursday October 5, 2023, at Atrium Shelby after a period of declining health.

Mr. Groves was born January 26, 1952, a son of the late Ralph Ray Groves and Elizabeth Reece  Carswell.  He was retired as an engineer in the furniture manufacturing industry.  John enjoyed his years growing up in Drexel where he made a host of friends that he kept in contact with over the years.  In retirement, he enjoyed classic cars and driving his old Chevy truck.  He also cherished his furry friends, Shamu, Squeaky and Little Girl.

Surviving are his sisters, Bobbie Cox (Jack) of Hickory, Kris Carswell(Bobby Starling) of Statesville and nephew, Jason Cox (Lindsay) of Hickory.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 P.M. Tuesday October 10, 2023 ,at Heritage Funeral Service, with a Graveside Service to follow at Drexel Memorial Park.

At other times, the family will be at the home of John’s nephew, Jason Cox in Hickory.

Memorials may be made to Burke County Friends for Animals, 417 Kirksey Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 or the Drexel Alumni Association, P.O. 3114, Drexel, N C 28619.