Zeno GrocePastor Zeno Groce June 22, 1922 - Dec. 10, 2012, a faithful Minister of the Gospel, went to be with his Lord on December 10, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. Zeno gave his life serving others and was pastor of Woodland Baptist Church for 46 year until his retirement in 1998. He was born in Yadkin County on June 22, 1922 to Daniel Webster Groce and Emma Rutledge Groce. Zeno met Helen Hicks and they were married on April 3, 1942 and the couple was blessed with three sons. On September 1, 1942 he enlisted in the US Navy and began active duty aboard the U.S.S. Massachusetts during World War II. After receiving his honorable discharge in October 1945, he worked for Parrish Tire Company for 11 years. In the summer of 1953 Zeno felt the call of God on his life to be a minister of the Gospel and was ordained as pastor of Woodland Baptist Church on April 24, 1955. During his 46 years as pastor, the congregation grew from 100 in attendance to as high as 2,000. Zeno preached at revival services throughout the southeast and served as a mentor to numbers of pastors. Read More Read Less