Mr. Jerry Wayne Groce, 72. of Advance, died Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017.

He was born March 19, 1944 in Forsyth County to Amos and Flossie Doby Groce. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He retired from R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. after 32 years.  He was a NASCAR fan and enjoyed weekends at local stock car racing venues. He also loved camping and summers spent working in his garden. He never met a stranger and enjoyed long talks with those he knew.

He is preceded in death by: his parents; a brother, James; and 2 sisters, Gertrude and Katherine.

Survivors: his wife of 33 years, Ansley Y. Groce; 2 daughters, Lauren Groce Nesbitt and husband Christopher of Concord, and Jenna Groce of Winston-Salem; and 3 grandchildren, Braylon, Hylyn and Layla.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9 at Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel.

Memorials: Calvary Church West or Hospice & Pallative CareCenter of Winston-Salem.

Condolences: www.hayworth-miller.com.