James Robert Grounds

JAMES ROBERT "JIM" GROUNDS was born May 10, 1931, in Frost, Texas, the son of Robert Martin and Leta Fern Schumate Grounds. He grew up and attended school in Blooming Grove. After graduating from Blooming Grove High School, he then earned his Master's Degree from Sam Houston State University. Jim served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 until his honorable discharge in 1955. On June 22, 1953, Jim married Billie Dean Scoggins at the First United Methodist Church in Dresden, Texas. Jim and Billie have made their home in Bellville, Texas, for the last 40 years. Together, they enjoyed square dancing. During his working years, Jim was employed by the United States Department of Agriculture Soil and Water Conservation. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Jim treasured the time he was able to spend with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. An active member of the Bellville United Methodist Church, he was also involved with the local elections, HOA - Meals on Wheels and the Sens Center. Jim passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, October 17, 2011, at his home in Bellville at the age of 80. He is survived by HIS WIFE OF OVER 58 YEARS: Billie Dean Grounds of Bellville; DAUGHTERS: Debbie Nordt and her husband, Arthur, of Brenham and Jamie Willingham of Bellville; GRANDCHILDREN: Holly White and her husband, Brian, of Katy, Miranda Garza and her husband, Cooper, of Brenham, Kenneth Willingham and his wife, Melanie, of Sealy, Mark Nordt of Brenham and Christy Willingham of Bellville. He is also survived by his GREAT GRANDCHILDREN: Detric and Delaine Phillips, Kyle Willingham, Reagan White, Travis Willingham and Cannon Garza. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Leta Grounds.