John Nelson Groom

John Nelson Groom was born on August 10, 1935, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to John George and Ancelina Groom. From an early age, he embraced scouting and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, while also developing a deep passion for football. At Miller High School, he earned All-State and All-American honors, and at Texas Christian University he was named to the All-State Senior Bowl team. He earned his bachelor’s degree at TCU and later completed a master’s degree in Secondary Education at North Texas State University.

John devoted thirty-five years to teaching and coaching. He coached football in Taylor and at Irving High School, served as head coach at Mathis High School for seven years, and later coached at Carroll High School in Corpus Christi. Between coaching assignments, he directed a 10,500-acre Boy Scout ranch in Skiatook, Oklahoma, from 1966 to 1970, and worked as an Out-of-School Youth Coop Coordinator. He was married first to Loures, with whom he adopted a son, John N. Groom Jr. Later he married Mary Pat Groom, who brought into his life her children, David and Sandra McGinnis. He cherished time with his family, whether fishing, hunting, camping, or sharing mornings with his coffee club.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John George and Ancelina Groom, and his sister, Cynthia Groom Smith. He is survived by his children, David and Sandra McGinnis; grandchildren Morgan, Taylor, Cameron McGinnis, Hunter and Harrison Johnson; great-grandchildren Skye and Lulu McGinnis, Raelyn, Bennett, Jessa, Rylee, and Nolan; two nieces, Tracy George and Delane Hill; great-niece Delaney Johnson; and great-nephew John Prinz.