Thomas "Tommy" Marshall Groat

July 30, 1946 - May 5, 2019

Thomas Marshall (Tommy) Groat passed away May 5, 2019 at the age of 72. He was born July 30, 1946 in Fort Payne, Alabama at Guest Clinic. He was preceded in death by his parents Marshall Oren Groat and Margaret Lothian Groat, son John Robert Groat, sister Jane Marie Groat Camp, sister-in-law Betty Groat and lifelong friend, Ben Smith. Mr. Groat is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Shirley Gentry Groat; children, David Marshall Groat, Donna Marie Groat, Freddie Leath III (Becky), Monica Leath Brown (Jeff), and Deborah Leath Blevins; brothers, John Groat, Dick Groat, and brothers-in-law, Terry Camp and Keith Gentry (Sheila); 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Tommy grew up in Fort Payne and graduated from Fort Payne High School in the class of 1964. After graduation, he was awareded a football scholarship to Auburn University where he played defensive end until graduation in 1967. Returning to Fort Payne, he began his career in commercial construction. He built numerous buildings for Prewett Hosiery Mills and was the contractor for the Life Center at Fort Payne United Methodist Church. Tommy owned and operated Groat Construction until his retirement. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and served his community through the Jaycees and charitable organizations. During his lifetime, he traveled the world, especially enjoying his favorite sport of hunting. During his later years, he enjoyed staying home with his wife, Shirley. He was an avid reader, especially biographies and historical material. Graveside services will be 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7, at Glenwood Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Davis officiating. The family requests no flowers, but memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church Life Center, 206 Grand Avenue NW, Fort Payne, AL 35967.