About Chris

8/31/1984 – 10/23/2003

Christopher Michael Groom

Christopher Groom

“We honor you. We honor you for the thoughtful, caring and compassionate son and big brother you had become. We honor you for the responsible young man you had become. We honor you and thank you for a lifetime of wonderful memories you have provided for all of us.

We all miss you terribly, but we know that you are watching over us, and we hope that you’re proud of the things we’re doing to honor you. You will forever be in our hearts. We love and miss you, Chris.”

Suzanne & Mike Groom

The Groom Family - Mike, Suzanne, Chase, Madison, Gabrielle, Austin & Grayson

A Legacy of Kindness: Remembering Christopher Michael Groom

Chris Groom was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, on August 31, 1984, and proudly graduated in 2002 from Leesville Road High School in Raleigh, NC. He is fondly remembered for his remarkable qualities—thoughtfulness, compassion, and a caring nature. Chris’ devotion extended to his siblings: Chase, Madison, Gabrielle, and Austin, with Grayson, born five years after Chris’ passing and given the middle name ‘Christopher’ to serve as a tribute to his big brother.

In his spare time, Chris found joy in a variety of hobbies. He enjoyed playing soccer, football, and golf, but his true passion lay in all things car-related. He spent quality time with friends, crafting cherished memories that would endure. During his college years, Chris’ strong work ethic shone as he worked as a car detailer, demonstrating his dedication to his pursuits. A dreamer at heart, Chris aspired to become a car designer, a testament to his boundless creativity and ambition.

Another of Chris’ cherished passions was playing the guitar. Self-taught, he dedicated hours to practicing in his room or on the back deck until his skills were honed enough to join his best friends in their band, 10-2. The band not only played music but also created their own compositions, delighting friends, and neighbors, and even performing at graduation parties. Chris’ love for the guitar shone brightly in these moments, a testament to his zest for life.

The defining chapter of Chris’ life was marked by a remarkable act of kindness—a “Secret Gift.” Known to only a few, this act demonstrated his selfless nature and his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Although Chris’ time with us was tragically cut short at the age of 19 in a car accident, his legacy continues to radiate through the Chris Groom Memorial Fund.

In three words, Chris can best be described as compassionate, thoughtful, and caring. Through the Chris Groom Memorial Fund, his memory lives on, enriching the lives of less fortunate children and inspiring acts of kindness in his name. Chris, your “Secret Gift” remains a testament to your generous heart, and your legacy serves as a guiding light, encouraging us all to follow in your footsteps.

To Chris

You never said, “I’m leaving”,
You never said “Good-bye”.
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knows why.

A million times we’ve needed you,
A million times we’ve cried.
If love alone could’ve saved you,
You never would’ve died.

In life we loved you dearly,
In death we love you still.
In our hearts you hold a place,
No one else will ever fill.

It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn’t go alone.
Part of us went with you,
The day God took you home.

We Love You, Chris

Chris Groom’s Secret Gift

chris’ kindness & generosity live on

Despite earning minimum wage, Chris managed to save $100, which he selflessly gave to his pastor with the heartfelt request that it remain a secret and be used to ensure underprivileged children received a Christmas gift.

We have transformed Chris’ secret gift into a substantial resource dedicated to supporting less fortunate children. Read Full Story >

chris’ legacy

Chris Groom Memorial Fund

we help local children & families in need

We have transformed Chris’ Secret Gift into a substantial resource dedicated to supporting less fortunate children.

^

Christmas Gifts & Donations

^

Coats, Shoes & Clothing Essentials

^

Meals for Vulnerable Children

^

Summer Camp Funding

people icon

donations

childs bear icon

recipients

gift icon 2

gifts given

money donation icon

dollars raised

chris groom

Photo Gallery

impact statements

Our Volunteers & Donors Change Lives