Rolly David Grounds
Rolly David Grounds passed away unexpectedly July 10, 2017 in Braselton, Ga., at the age of 75.
“David” is survived by his children, Rodney and Melissa Grounds; brother, Ben Grounds; daughter in-law, Lana Grounds and grandchildren, Dane, Jace and Marley Grounds. David is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Kay Grounds.
David was born Aug. 31, 1941 in Ranger, to Dudley and Christine Grounds of Caddo. David graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1959 and then attended college at East Texas State University.
While at East Texas State, David met the love of his life, Kay Williams. The couple were married in 1961 and after completion of their degrees they moved to Corpus Christi to pursue careers in teaching.
In 1965 David’s desire to serve his country led him to join the U.S. Air Force. David served as a pilot in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After his service in Vietnam, David continued his career in the Air Force as an instructor pilot in T37 and T38 jet aircraft. David retired as a USAF captain in 1973.
After his Air Force service, David settled his family in Breckenridge, where he was instrumental in working with his father to grow the family woodworking business. David became the owner of the family business, the D.O. Grounds Woodshop.
David would spend the next 16 years as the owner of the D.O. Grounds Woodshop before selling the business and relocating to the Dallas area. While in Breckenridge, David was active in the community and served as a school board member.
In Dallas, David took the position of general manager and company pilot at the Howard S. Twitchell Company. David’s entrepreneurial spirit lead to the creation of Ameritek Machinery Company with his business partner, Oscar Wilson. Ameritek Machinery had locations in Dallas, Houston and El Paso and was recognized as one of the premier woodworking machinery distribution companies in North America.
In his leisure time David enjoyed flying, traveling, camping, fishing, bird watching, flowers and sunsets.
David’s friends and family remember him as a thoughtful, honest, funny and spiritual man. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. David was an accomplished businessman and pilot, but more importantly, David was a man who was passionate about serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and his beloved family. He lived his life as an example for others.
A funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, July 15 at Cooper Sorrells Funeral Home in Honey Grove. Viewing will be prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate David's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Air Force Aid Society at https://www.afas.org/ or to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.