John Daugherty Groves

John Daugherty Groves, age 87, of Bethel Park, PA, passed away at home Saturday July 4, 2020 and was born on August 4, 1932 in Uniontown, PA. John proudly served his country in the United States Army, then received a bachelors and masters degree in Education from West Virginia University.  John spent his career teaching Physical Education in the Pittsburgh Public School System and retired while teaching at Pathfinder School for children with special needs.  John was instrumental within the Special Olympics Program, twice leading the Pennsylvania delegation to the National Special Olympic Games.  John coached basketball, football and swimming for many years to kids of all ages.  Through his years, he took great pride and joy in attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities.  John was known to be quite a dancer in his youth and was a strong swimmer well into adulthood.  He enjoyed fishing, cooking, camping, playing the lottery and gathering on Sundays in the family room to root on his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers.  John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose gentle nature brought comfort to all who knew him.

John is survived by his son Geoffrey Groves and his wife Beth of Erie, PA; his daughter Jennifer Groves of Bethel Park, PA; his daughter Jacqueline Randolph of Elizabeth Township, PA; his sister Carol Tucker of Scottsdale, AZ; his seven grandchildren; Geoffrey Groves, Jordan Groves, Jarrod Groves, Ryne Randolph, Jase Randolph, Jocelyn Randolph, Gracyn Groves and one great grandson; Anthony Groves. John was preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life, Jocelyn Groves, his precious daughter Janelle Groves and two brothers, James Groves and Darwin Struble.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday July 11, 2020 at Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, where friends and family may visit from 1:00-3:00 and attend a memorial service at 3:00.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Gallagher Hospice, 1370 Washington Pike, Suite 401B Bridgeville, PA 15017.

Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at www.PittsburghCremation.com