Bernard D. Groves, 73 of Winchester, VA, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. Bernie was born on June 11, 1951, in Winchester VA, the son of the late Bernard and Lois Groves. He was a graduate of John Handley High School, Class of 1969 and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in education from Shepherd University in 1974, and earned his master’s degrees from JMU and UVA in 1976. In 1999 he retired as an educator for Clarke County Schools. Bernie was a past President of Clarke Co. Teachers Assoc., past President of VA Education Assoc. and a past member of Rouss Fire Hall. He loved to hunt and fish in his younger days and especially loved deep sea fishing in Mexico. Bernie enjoyed traveling with his family, including going on many cruises. He had a great passion for the stock market and watched CNBC every day also, talking with his friends Lynn, Whitney and Jennifer about the market daily. Bernie loved his dogs and watching the Hallmark Channel and was an avid Redskins/Commanders fan. He will be missed by all his beloved friends and family.
He is survived by the love of his life of 37 years, Karen Malone, daughters, Damie Malone (Adria), Melissa Tharpe (Tommy), Melinda Malone and grandchildren, Chloe Tharpe, Isaiah Malone and Thomas Tharpe and two cousins that were like brothers to him, David Groves and Jon Groves and canine companions, Rodie and Penny. Bernie was a father figure to David Brubaker (Liz) and was known as “Pop” to, Ali, Sophia and Jacob.
In addition to his parents, Bernie was preceded in death by his sister, Cheryl Willingham-Hummel and beloved canine companion, Sasha.
A visitation will be held for Bernie on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11am with a service to follow at 12pm all held at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. Interment will be in Mount Hebron Cemetery. Pastor Mike Mayton will be officiating.
The pallbearers will be Isaiah Malone, Alex Giffin, Tommy Tharpe, Lynn McCauley, David Brubaker, Ryan McCauley, and Billy Stimmel. Honorary pallbearers will be Chloe and Thomas Tharpe.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bernie to Winchester SPCA, 111 Featherbed Lane, Winchester, VA 22601.
Bernie’s famous saying was “They Just Don’t Make ‘em Like They Used To” and there will never be another one like him.