Bettie Lucile Groce

Bettie Lucile Groce, born on December 21, 1938, passed into eternal peace on the morning of October 6, 2024, surrounded by family in Kingwood, Texas.

A woman of deep faith and a lifelong member of Pin Oak Baptist Church, Bettie was known for her unwavering dedication to the Lord. She served as Secretary-Treasurer, Building Co-Coordinator for new construction and expansions, and as a member of the Pastor Committee. Her life was marked by kindness, strength, and quiet resilience, always placing the well-being of her family and community first.

After graduating from Cleveland High School in 1957, Bettie dedicated more than four decades of her career to Cleveland Independent School District, focusing on accounting and finance. She ultimately retired as Chief Financial Officer, where her exceptional leadership ensured the district remained financially sound, a crucial achievement in school finance. Bettie’s commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on the district and those fortunate enough to work alongside her. She also served as election coordinator for Cleveland ISD Trustee elections for over 30 years and supported the local school board.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Bettie supported the family business, Rounhouse Corporation, a greenhouse manufacturing company founded by her husband in 1970. She was deeply involved in her community, serving as Coordinator for the Cleveland Interfaith Telethon, where she organized business fundraisers. Bettie gave her time to numerous organizations, including the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Cleveland Regional Medical Center Board of Directors, and Cleveland Diagnostic Hospital. For over three decades, she was a dedicated buyer and supporter at Cleveland Dairy Day and the Trinity Valley Exposition. Her contributions extended to the Cleveland Senior Citizen Organization, Ducks Unlimited and many other local initiatives. Over the years, Bettie earned numerous honors, including being named Cleveland Citizen of the Year, The Community Builder Award from Tarkington Prairie Lodge, and serving as the Election Judge for Precinct 27.

A lifelong resident of Cleveland, Texas, Bettie’s legacy of service, devotion, and love will be cherished by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Bettie is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edgar J. "Bubba" Groce; her parents, Bill and Mamie Rutherford; and her brother, James Rutherford. She is survived by her children: Rhonda Groce Steede and her husband Jim, Sonda Groce Green and her husband Chip, and Jay Groce and girlfriend Gail. Known as Grandmother, Ginmother, and Mimi to her cherished grandchildren: Tarah Steede Kasha, Brandon Green, Tiffany Green, Ryan Steede, Evan Steede, Carly Groce, and Garett Groce. Bettie is also survived by her brother, Billy Rutherford and wife Sandy, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home Chapel in Cleveland, TX, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Pin Oak Cemetery, immediately after the graveside service, a gathering of Family and Friends will follow from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Tarkington Prairie Masonic Lodge. Pallbearers are Brandon Green, Ryan Steede, Evan Steede, Garett Groce, Derrick Rutherford, and Hoby Rutherford.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in memory of Bettie L. Groce to the Cleveland Senior Citizen Organization, 220 Peach Street, Cleveland, TX 77327.