Betty Jean Grooms

Betty Jean (Perry) Grooms of Elkhart, IN passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family December 10, 2015.

Betty was born on September 17, 1940 in New Castle, IN the second child of Alva and Ida (Smith) Perry who are both deceased. Also, preceding her in death was a brother James Dexter, nephew Melvin Denny Jr., brother-in-law Melvin Denny, sister-in-law Faye Perry, first husband David Kriner, and second husband Jack Weaver.

Betty is survived by her devoted and loving husband, Larry Grooms. They were married July 2, 1982. Also, two children Kathy (Eldon) Squibb and Harroll Kriner of Elkhart. Betty had three granddaughters Julie Clarke (Kevin) and Jodie Squibb, and Kristina Guzman (Francisco) of Elkhart. She had three great grandchildren Anabella Guzman, Alejandro Guzman and Bailey Clarke. Two sisters, Ruth Denny of New Castle and Edna (Glen) Edwards of Monticello, KY. A sister-in-law Teresa Perry of New Castle. Betty also had three brothers Dr. David Perry (Shirley), Alva J. Perry, and Avery Perry (Inus). Also, several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

She was diagnosed with cancer in 2010. She attended Beulah Missionary Church and was a member of the cancer support group as well as a member of Gyna Girls Gyn cancer support group in Mishawaka.

She was formerly employed as a Nursing Attendant at New Castle State Hospital, and at Henry County Memorial Hospital in the Nursing Division. She was a nursing secretary and medication technician. She was also employed as Vital Records Supervisor at the Elkhart County Health Dept. where she retired. She then, worked part time at Osolo Elementary School in their Latch Key program. She was a Switchboard Concern Volunteer and a volunteer for church community services. Betty was also a member of the National Square Dance camping club and a charter member of Wakarusa Bluegrass Festival Inc., board of directors. She was a member of Lake City Sams #47 camping club and Women of the Moose #73. Betty graduated from New Castle High School in 1958.

A celebration of life service will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 14, 2015 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Pastor Brent Poe of Elkhart officiating. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. A memorial service will be held at Beulah Missionary Church in Elkhart on Thursday December 17, 2015 at 1 p.m. with a dinner to follow. In lieu of flowers memorials can be given to United Cancer Services of Elkhart County, 23971 US 33, Elkhart, IN 46517. You may share a condolence or memory of Betty Jean at www.hinsey-brown.com .