Alice Blackmore

Alice Marjorie "Margie" Groce was born on May 17, 1937 in Bryan, Texas and was called home on Monday, August 17, 2020. She was the first of five (5) children born to the late Daniel S. and Katie B. Groce. The family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1948 and she graduated from Grand Rapids Central High School in 1955. She attended Davenport Institute (University). She began work the same year at Michigan Bell Telephone as an operator. She was there until her retirement. After retirement, she earned her Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education. She was employed with REACH, Inc. for several years and last worked for Arbor Circle child care program. Margie came to know the Lord at First Community AME Church and accepted Christ at an early age. She was a faithful member until her death. She involved herself in a number of special programs and was instrumental in establishing the liturgical dance in the church. On August 26, 1961 she married Johnny C. Blackmore who preceded her in death in 2015. Margie enjoyed the role of homemaker and sewing and crafts. She enjoyed shopping and traveling with friends. She was a member of the Red Hat Club and Eastern Stars. Margie was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Nolan Groce. She is survived by her daughters Monica Gillum of Grand Blanc, MI and Tonya Blackmore; three grand children Simone, Isaac and Maija; her brothers, Daniel (Betty); Maurice (Donna) ; her sister Kathy Manley (Larry); sister-in-law Julia Groce. Several nieces, nephews, cousins; friends and special friends, Barbara Hicks, Lansing, MI ; Marsalene Hamilton and Char Letts both of Grand Rapids, MI. Per Margie's wishes cremation has taken place, her remains will be buried with her husband, Johnny at Grand Rapids Home for Veteran's Cemetery and private family services are being held. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Alice Blackmore, please visit our flower store.