Joseph "Clay" Groom

Joseph “Clay” Groom, also known as “Poppy” passed into the loving arms of Jesus on Thursday, January 26, 2023.  He was 63 years old.  The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, February 3, 2023, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home in Florence. The memorial service will begin at 3:00 p.m.

Clay was born on September 4, 1959, to the late Joe Groom and Vicki Mills Groom in Gulfport, Mississippi. He loved his family. Clay enjoyed fishing, hunting, kayaking, anything outdoors. Clay was an avid outdoorsman.  In the last few years, he enjoyed creating “creektures” where he would take driftwood and other items from the creek and other essentials and create sculptures’, lamps, and other crafts. He was a selfless man. A true servant who was always willing to help others and expecting nothing in return. Clay was a successful businessman where he was self-employed for 35 years in the contracting industry. There was not much that he couldn’t do.  Clay was a board member for Cleary Heights Board of Supervisors where he served many years.  He also served as President of the Board and Fishing Club and enjoyed cooking and visiting at the fish fry’s for the community.

Along with his parents, Clay is preceded in death by his brother; Doug Groom and grandson; Ashton Brewer.  He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Groom of Florence; children; Daniel (Brandi) Brewer of Florence, Keisha Johnson of Madison, Michael Groom of Florence; sister; Sheila (Steve) Maulding of Pearl; uncle; John Rea of Gulfport; cousin; Steven Mills; grandchildren; Olivia, Brookleigh, Christian, Layla, Bryson, Cason and Daxon; great grandchildren; Jayden, Landon and Naomi.