James Grounds

(From Parker Mortuary)

James Melvin Grounds, age 81, of Joplin, passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2022 at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin.

James, son of the late Ralph and Ima (Shumate) Grounds, was born on October 4, 1940 in Waxahachie, TX. Soon after graduating high school, he enlisted and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. He then worked in hospital security until his retirement. He moved to the Joplin area to retire and make his home closer to family.

Survivors include his children, Jerry Grounds, and his wife, Pauline, of Ozark, and Lori Moffatt, and her husband, Sean, of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Jazmynn Grounds, Paulina Grounds, Jessica Moffatt, and Ian Moffatt; great grandchildren, Adalynn Grounds, Peyton Moffatt, MacKenzie Moffatt, Adalynn Moffatt, Elaina Watt, and Ryland Watt; the mother of his children, Doris Grounds, of Joplin; his sisters, Shirley, Elsie, Lynda; his brother Edwin; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Wayne Grounds.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary in Joplin. Burial will be held at a later date at the Springfield National Cemetery in Springfield.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.