Stella Mae Groom, 89, of Rensselaer, passed away Sunday, May 7, 2017 at George Ade Memorial Health Care Center in Brook. She was born in Rensselaer on June 20, 1927, the daughter of Ralph R. and Alice O. (Owen) Smith. She graduated from Rensselaer High School and was a lifelong area resident. On March 25, 1949, in Star City, Indiana, she married Joe Allen Groom. He preceded her in death on June 8, 1980.

Stella worked as a secretary for Beer Mart in Rensselaer for many years. She was affiliated with the United Pentecostal Church of Lake Station. She volunteered with the Jasper County Hospital Auxiliary and served as the secretary for her church. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzle books, playing dartball for many years, and spending time with her family. She was outgoing, witty, and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Stella is survived by her loving family: four children: Kristy Lu (Gary) Stewart, George Owen (Kathy) Groom, Mary Ann (Chris) Hannon, and JoAnn (Alan) Cooper; eight grandchildren: Courtney Stewart, Heather (Jim) Hall, Corey (Amber) Groom, Carra (Doyle) Depriest, Christopher (Rena) Hannon, Bryan (Kristina) Hannon, Kylee (Diego) Robles, and Jennica Cooper; twelve great-grandchildren: Jacob, Hannah, Hilary and Halle Hall, Quentin and Reese Groom, Riley, Noah and Lachlan Depriest, Jack and Evan Hannon, and Silas Robles; five brothers: Floyd (Peggy) Smith, Harold Smith, John Smith, Robert (Nancy) Smith, and Larry (Kay) Smith; and four sisters: Betty Benson, Jeanette (Ernie) Randolph, Linda Gangsie, and Nancy Patton.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; her husband, Joe Allen Groom; two brothers, Ralph Smith and George Smith; and one sister, Rose Wren.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 10, 2017 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 12 p.m. (CDT) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Pastor Chris Hannon officiating. Interment will be Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Smith Cemetery. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.