Jim Groves

James A. “Jim” Groves, 80, of Fresno, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026.

Born on March 23, 1945, in Coshocton, Ohio, Jim's legacy is intertwined with the love he showed to his family and the dedication he exhibited in his career and community.

After honorably serving in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1964-1968, Jim returned to his home town where he worked diligently for 42 years as a Boiler Operator at Stone Container in Coshocton.

Beyond his professional life, Jim was a caring and fun-loving man who fully embraced his role as a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl S. Groves, whom he married on July 2,1966; his children, Shawn L. (Loy) Wiggins of Newcomerstown and Lon A. (Maria) Groves of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; and his grandchildren, Haley Wiggins, Victoria (James) Turner; step-grandchildren Nicholas Wallace, Joseph Wallace, and Johnny Wallace. Jim also cherished his great-grandchild, Beckham Turner, along with his step-great-grandchildren, Brianna Vaughn, Yazman Wallace, Aaliyah Wallace; step great great granddaughter Aria Rain Vaughn. Also surviving are his brothers, Charles W. (Judy) Groves of Grove City and Orville J. (Carole) Groves of Coshocton, and sister, Linda (James) Cincinat of Coshocton; and several nieces and nephews.

Jim's dedication to service extended beyond his family and career. He was a lifelong member of the Army Navy and American Legion, as well as the V.F.W., proudly participating in 490 military funerals with the Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard, Jim was also honored as Veteran of the Year in 2018. Additionally, he was a long-time member of Fresno United Methodist Church.

An avid enthusiast of woodworking and gardening, Jim found joy in taking care of his flowers, often sharing the beauty he cultivated with others. His caring personality and ability to bring fun into every gathering will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The services to honor Jim's life will be held on January 12, 2026, at The Miller Funeral Home, located at 639 Main Street, Coshocton, Ohio. The family will receive visitors from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 4:00 PM with Pastor Dan Eggan officiating and Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard performing military honors for Jim.

As we remember Jim Groves, we celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to family, community, and service. His spirit and love will continue to resonate through the lives he touched.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 and/or Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard, 318 Main St., Coshocton, Ohio 43812; envelopes for these will be available at the funeral home.