James Cory Grooms, 57, of Ottumwa died August 25, 2026 at his home.
He was born February 14, 1969 to John P. and Judith Maye Lynn Helmick Grooms. Cory married Melissa Ann Renfrew August 14, 1987.
A 1987 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Cory worked with his dad at Grooms Construction later becoming an owner. He worked as a salesman at Vaughn Automotive and was a sales manager at Clemons and Carroll Distribution. Since March of 2020, Cory has worked as a project manager and provided estimates for Norris Asphalt.
Cory attended The Bridge Church and he and his wife, Missy were in a bowling league. He enjoyed golfing, bow hunting and playing card games. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Surviving is his wife, Missy; their 3 daughters, Jenna (Tommy) Wilkins, Sydney (Jacob) Thomas and Haley Jo (Quentin) Bishop all of Ottumwa; 6 grandchildren, Carter James, Tucker, Lane, Avery, Henry and Saylor; his father, John Grooms of Ottumwa; siblings, Dave (Lori) Grooms of Lilburn, GA, Jeff (Leslie) Grooms of Ottumwa, Julie Davidson of San Diego, CA, Tricia Stockton of Merritt Island, FL; along with several nieces, nephews and many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his mother; grandparents, William and Juanita Helmick and John and Sylvia Grooms.
Visitation will be open at 10 a.m. Monday August 31st at Reece Funeral Home with family present to greet friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday September 1st at Reece Funeral Home with his son-in-law Pastor Tommy Wilkins officiating. Burial will be in Chisman Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the family to be designated at a later date.
