Doyle Groves
Warren Doyle Groves, 90, of Morristown, passed away on January 23, 2026, after a brief stay at Emerald Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born April 9, 1935, in Egypt Valley (Union Township), Ohio, he was the eldest son of Clara Doris Major and John Delmar Groves.
There are people whose lives quietly shape the world around them: Doyle was one of those rare individuals. Intelligent, wise, steady, and endlessly kind, his life was defined by service – never for recognition, but because helping others was simply how he lived.
Doyle’s sense of responsibility began at an early age working his family farm in Egypt Valley. This experience shaped him into a man you could always find behind the wheel or under the hood of anything with a motor. He was ever-ready to lend a helping hand, a wrench, or his vast knowledge; whether a neighbor needed a vehicle back on the road or assistance with a home repair. Doyle never hesitated to show up and get to work.
As a young man, Doyle served his country with honor during two periods of duty in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Later in 1970, he joined the newly formed Morristown Volunteer Fire Department. He served faithfully for more than five decades- including 17 years as Fire Chief- continuing to respond to calls well into his eighties. Doyle was also a founding member of the Eastern Ohio Amateur Wireless Association in 1976. He was a life member and held various leadership positions.
In 2013, the Wheeling News-Register featured Doyle in an article about Morristown, by then affectionately known as “Father Morristown.” Doyle served as a long time member on the village council. Residents recall him plowing snow in the winter, mowing lawns in the summer, and climbing into ditches to repair waterlines, often without fanfare or compensation. He simply saw a need and met it. This same spirit carried over to the Morristown United Methodist Church, where he served as handyman, usher, and even the Sunday morning barista.
A mechanic by trade, Doyle never stopped learning. He possessed a rare curiosity that allowed him to transition seamlessly from carburetors to computers, fully embracing technology as it evolved. This fascination wasn’t just a hobby; it served as the spark for future generations. Doyle eventually took continuing education classes to become the Plant Supervisor of the Belmont County Water Treatment Plant, proving that he was never too old to master a new system.
Everyone who truly knew Doyle shared a common sentiment when remembering him: he was always there. His quiet strength, unwavering dependability, and genuine goodness touched countless lives and left a legacy. Though he never sought praise, he was deeply respected and profoundly loved by his community.
At the time of his passing, Doyle was a member of the Morristown United Methodist Church, Barnesville VFW Post 2792, Kirkwood Masonic Lodge 446, and Morristown VFD.
Doyle is survived by his devoted wife, Marie Groves of Morristown; daughters, Cheryl (John) Borkoski and Lisa Groves, both of Morristown; and two grandchildren, Justin Borkoski of Louisville, Ohio, and Katie (Jed) Robson of Auburn, Kentucky. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Cynthia Marie Groves, Gladys Medley, and John Groves.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Toothman Funeral Home, St. Clairsville with Masonic services at 7:30 pm and Morristown VFD services at 7:45 pm. Funeral services will be held on Friday January 30th at 11 a.m. with Pastor Karen Elliot officiating.
Burial will be held following the services at Rock Hill Cemetery, Flushing. Memorial donations may be made to the Morristown United Methodist Church: PO Box 137, Morristown, Ohio 43759.