Edward Earl “Sonny” Grose, 86

August 8, 1939 – August 31, 2025

Edward Earl “Sonny” Grose, a cherished man known for his kind-hearted nature and gentle spirit, passed away on August 31, 2025, at the Baptist Memorial Hospital-Union County. Born in Lafayette County, Mississippi, on August 8, 1939, Sonny’s life was a testament to the love and laughter he brought into the world.

Sonny was a devoted husband to his loving wife, Betty Cook Grose. Together, they shared a life full of joy, hard work, and dedication to their family and faith. He was a proud father to his children, Sheila Vandygriff of Dumas, MS, Marjie Tidwell of Water Valley, James Grose of Hamilton, AL, Johnny Grose of Oxford, and Glen Grose of Oxford. His legacy continues through his sisters, Sue Mahan of Ecru and Dorothy Harwell of Oxford, and brothers, Dee and Larry Grose, both of Oxford. His life was further enriched by a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Annie Louise Watts Grose, his daughter Nancy Grose, his son Roy Grose, his stepdaughter Lisa Akins, eight siblings, and one great-grandchild.

A carpenter by trade, Sonny worked for Elliot Lumber Company, where he was respected for his skill and hard work. After retirement, he continued serving his community alongside his wife, cleaning Academy Baptist Church, a place that was very dear to his heart. His dedication to his craft and to his church reflected the strong Christian values that guided his life.

Sonny was known for his sweet personality, always ready with a laugh or a joke to lighten the hearts of those around him. Beyond his love for humor, he found solace in the beauty of nature, tending to his flowers and garden with a passion that was evident in the vibrant colors and fragrances that surrounded his home. The fruits of his labor were not just for the eye, but also for the table, as he enjoyed canning the produce he so meticulously cultivated.

Those who knew Sonny would describe him as a man who was not only kind and handy but who carried himself with a gentle strength that was both comforting and inspiring. His love for his church, Academy Baptist, was paralleled only by his love for his family, whom he cherished above all else.

Services to honor his life will be on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 3:00pm at Academy Baptist Church in Blue Mountain. A visitation will be on Wednesday September 3, from 5:00pm-8:00pm at United Funeral Service. Burial will be at Academy Cemetery

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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