
In Loving Memory
SG
Sharon Groves
December 1, 1941 — October 14, 2026
Obituary of Sharon Groves
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Sharon Groves surrounded by family on October 14, 2026, at Highgate Senior Living in Yakima. Born on December 1, 1941, in Seattle, Washington, Sharon was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose warm spirit and loving nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Sharon was the daughter of Viola and Elmer Swanson. Sharon was the oldest sister of 6 siblings. She learned the values of devotion, leadership and hard work early in life. Sharon met the love of her life, Glen Groves as seniors in high school. They married on June 22, 1963. Their love for each other continued for 67 years. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, friendship and love. The Groves family moved to Yakima in 1978.
Sharon and Glen found enjoyment cruising around the Yakima Valley during the summertime in their 1962 red Chevy Impala. Other memorable family adventures included vacationing to Long Beach, Port Townsend, Lake Chelan, Mexico and tropical islands. Closer to home adventures included family outings to their cabin at Cooper Lake.
Sharon was a nurturing mother to her family, her daughter Kim Clements and husband Mark and their son Andrew, and son Cory Groves and wife Tami and their son Brady. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Andrew and Brady, whose lives she enriched with her love and wisdom. She always picked out the perfect card and carefully wrote a thoughtful message of encouragement to loved ones. She was everyone's biggest cheerleader and showed it through her love and support.
A dedicated volunteer of the Children's Orthopedic Hospital, Sharon was known for her selflessness and desire to help others. Sharon helped start the Summitiview Elementary latchkey program for children after school and was actively involved in the West Valley PTA. Her love for gardening was evident in the vibrant red geraniums and stunning rose garden she tended to with care. Sharon's enthusiasm for celebrating holidays and hosting gatherings was legendary. Sharon's home was a place of warmth and joy, where friends and family were always welcome, especially during the annual Groves family gathering and swim party.
Sharon had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued. Her kindness, generosity, and ability to connect with people left an enduring impact on her community. Her daily walks around the neighborhood were a testament to her sociable nature and eagerness to meet new people. For those fortunate enough to have known Sharon, greetings and goodbyes were always accompanied with warm smiles and heartfelt hugs.
Sharon is lovingly remembered by her sisters, Susan Larson and husband Patrick, Sally Armfield and husband Gary, and Sara Titland and husband Tom. Her sister-in-law Jeanne Swanson, brother-in-law Gordy Groves and wife Judy share in the family’s sorrow and gratitude for the time spent with her. She was preceded in death by her parents Viola and Elmer Swanson and her brothers, Bill Swanson and Ernie Swanson.
Sharon's legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.
A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Sharon's life and memory at a later date.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Highgate Senior Living for their compassionate care during Sharon's final days.