Barbara Ruth Groves, 59, passed away on June 17, 2021 with her husband by her side.
Barbara was born on August 23, 1961 in Oceanside, NY to William and Mary Anne Munch. Growing up on Long Island, Barbara most enjoyed spending her summers at her parents’ cottage in East Hampton, where she and her family shared many happy memories.
After graduating from Valley Stream South High School and the University of Delaware, Barbara embarked on a successful career in fashion that took her from Hong Kong and Indonesia to Egypt and Thailand. At every stop, her larger-than-life spirit brought her lifelong friends.
When she was ready to spend time closer to family, Barbara decided to put down roots in Jacksonville, FL. There she met her future husband, Rex, when he helped her carry a toy horse for a friend’s child off a plane. Giving Rex her business card that day brought Barbara her new family, including stepchildren Kelley and Ryan, and eventually her daughter, Madeline.
A passionately involved mother, Barbara was an active participant in her daughter’s grade school events and fundraisers. Her energy was limitless as she chaired as many projects as she could manage, including book fairs and charity events where her ambitious crafting has become legendary. She was also a woman of strong faith, a gift she lovingly shared with Madeline.
Her interests were vast and varied, but she was passionate about traveling, interior design, holiday hosting, and of course, fashion. Barbara always danced to the beat of her own drum, setting trends and inspiring others to express themselves through her infectious joy.
Mrs. Groves is survived by her husband Rex and daughter Madeline, 10. She is also survived by her loving mother, Mary Anne, brothers Jacob (Kim) and William (Cathy) and sister Sandra (Kevin), along with Barbara’s stepchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is scheduled for 1:30 PM Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Evergreen Chapel in Evergreen Cemetery in Jacksonville, Florida. A gathering time will be held from 1 PM until the service starts.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to
Community Hospice & Palliative Care Foundation
4266 Sunbeam Road
Jacksonville, FL 32257
You can also give online at www.communityhospice.com/give.
Checks should be made out to CHPC Foundation and indicate “Barbara Groves” in the memo section.
6 Comments
Our most sincere condolences for the loss of dear Barbara. May her memory be eternal.
I had the pleasure of working for Barbara at Stein Mart! She taught me how to be a strong vocal women as I worked my way up in the retail industry. I covered for her while she was on maternity leave with Maddie. She was a wonderful women who loved her family so much! She will be greatly missed. Sending my sincere condolences to all of her friends and family.
To say that Barbara’s spirit was larger than life is an understatement. Her energy was infectious and her kindness was endless. I am a better person because I knew Barbara Groves.
Please accept my sincerest condolences on the loss of Barbara. I have great memories of our East Hampton summer friendship. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family. Rest In Peace my friend.
Dear Sandy & Family, sending love & comfort at this difficult time. Mary & the Carmody cousins❤️
Rex, I offer sincere condolences to you, Madeline, and family.
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