William E. Groff, Jr., 78, formerly of Martinsburg, passed away February 17 in Raleigh, NC after a lengthy illness.

He was born in Coatesville, PA, son of the late William and Catherine (Smith) Groff. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janie in 2008.

Surviving are his two daughters, Kim (Randy) Alexander of Greenville, NC and Kelly (Christopher) Werner of Raleigh, NC; four grandchildren, Lindsey Alexander of Philadelphia and Bryan Alexander of Yardley and Addison and Jackson Werner of Raleigh, NC. Also surviving are a sister, deLoros (Charles) Cook and James (Bonnie) all of Coatesville, PA., a niece, nephews, other relatives and many friends He was preceded in death by a sister, Judith (Walter) Slowik. Mr. Groff was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ.

Bill graduated from Coatesville High School in 1954 and Lock Haven State Teachers College in 1958. He later received a Masters in Education from West Chester State Teachers College. Bill retired from Spring Cove School District in 1995 after 35 years of teaching health and physical education. During his tenure, he coached football and basketball and he started the boys’ track and field program. Many of his students can recall his booming voice! Mr. Groff, an avid Steeler fan, loved all sports, boating on Lake Raystown and later on Lake Gaston, the Outer Banks, reading books and spending time with family – particularly his grandchildren.

A public memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 21 at St. John’s United Church of Christ, 117 E. Julian Street, Martinsburg. All are invited to attend and to share, to reflect and to fellowship in Bill’s memory, with a catered lunch to follow. His daughters ask that everyone dress casual and wear Central or Steelers attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be send to the Bill and Janie Groff Scholarship Fund, c/o Central High School, Martinsburg, PA 16662.