Robert Groncho Grindstaff

FOR TO ME TO LIVE IN CHRIST AND TO DIE IS GAIN. (Phillipians 1:21)Robert “Groncho” Grindstaff, age 82, of Erwin, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, June 21, 2015, at his residence surrounded by his loving family after a long illness. He was a native of Unicoi County, born Oct. 10, 1932 and born again on Nov. 26, 1962. He was a son of the late Avery and Jennie Murdock Grindstaff. He was a member of Evergreen Free Will Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for over 30 years and taught Sunday School for over 45 years. He enjoyed wood working and building things for his home and for his family. Bob enjoyed studying his Bible, witnessing to others about his faith and mentoring young Christians. He greatly enjoyed his children and grand-children. Bob was a star football player at UCHS during the 1950’s, earning honors as Team Captain, All Big-Five Conference, All East Tennessee, All State and Wigwam All-American. He also lettered in football at ETSU. Bob was very proud to have served in the United States Army. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a son: David Grindstaff, two sisters: Virginia Edwards and Brenda Hensley, brother: Bill Grindstaff of Ohio, two half- brothers: Oscar and Howard Grindstaff, and a half- sister: Ennis Tapp.Bob Grindstaff has left behind to cherish his memoires: Wife of 58 years: Eleanor Grindstaff of Erwin; Two Sons: Robert D and wife Ana of Little Elm, TX Jeff Grindstaff and wife Angie of Knoxville Daughter: Debbie Armstrong and husband Jim of Nashville Seven Grandsons: Chad and wife April, Matthew and wife Chelle, Santiago, Jonathan wife Jessica, Caleb Grindstaff and Bre, James and wife Stephanie and Wyatt Armstrong. Three Granddaughters: Chelsea and Victoria Grindstaff, Ayla and husband Kyle Abrams Seven Great-Grandchildren: Brother: Jim and wife Betty Grindstaff of Port Clinton, OH Sister-in-law: Evelyn Grindstaff of Erwin Robert is also survived by his beloved niece and her family, Connie and Charlie Miller and their sons, Chance and Dr. Miller and wife Heather. Special brother-in-law: James W. Hensley, Jr., and a special neighbor Tyrrell Anders. The family would like to say “Thank You” to the Avalon Hospice for the wonderful care and support they provided. They were so helpful and a blessing to us.The family respectfully requests the honor of your presence as we offer tribute and remember the life of Bob Grindstaff to be held at 7:00 PM, Thursday, June 25, 2015, at Evergreen Free Will Baptist Church. Reverend Craig Shelton, Reverend Howard Messer and Reverend Noah Taylor will officiate. Vocal selections will be presented by Evergreen Music Department and Queenie Wheeler. A visitation period to share memories and offer support to the family will begin at 5 PM on Thursday, June 25, 2015 and continue until service time. A graveside committal service will be held at 10 AM, Friday, June 26, 2015, in the Mausoleum Chapel of Evergreen Cemetery. Reverend Noah Taylor, and Brother Delbert Gillette will preside over the graveside services. Those who plan to attend will meet at Valley Funeral Home at 9:30 AM on Friday to go in procession to the Mausoleum. Serving as pallbearers will be James Necessary, Tyrrell Anders, GlenWhite, Kenneth Shinn, Larry Anders, Roy Miller, Walter Harris and David Harris. In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Romanian Mission, Matthews House, in care of Evergreen Free Will Baptist Church, 910 Hoback Street, Erwin, TN 37650.Condolences and memories may be shared with the family through our website at www.valleyfuneralhome.net.These arrangements are made especially for the family and friends of Bob Grindstaff through Valley Funeral Home, 1085 N. Main Ave., Erwin, TN, 423-743-9187.Read Obituary