Vivian Marie (Reece) Grogan, formerly of Springfield, Missouri, passed from this life on Friday, September 6, 2013 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Although her years numbered ninety-one, all who met her and those who loved he knew she remained young in heart, mind and spirit. She will be remembered for her pure and profound ability to love unconditionally; her warmth and compassion toward everyone and anyone; her infectious laugh; and the twinkle in her eyes. She was truly a living example and extension of God’s love and grace on this earth.
Vivian was born in Springfield on March 19, 1922, to Henry “Hob” and Josephine (Hall) Reece. She married Charles W. Grogan on June 11, 1944, at the First Baptist Church in Vinita, Oklahoma, during his Naval service in WWII. After settling in Bartlesville, OK and raising three children, the couple lived overseas through transfers with Phillips Petroleum Company, first to Puerto Rico and later to England. Making new friends and becoming involved in a church community were always important to Vivian, and that was certainly true no matter where the location. Vivian never found an antique store or flea market anywhere in the world that didn’t deserve her attention. She and Charles both shared a love of antiques and historical finds, a fascination they have passed on to all three of their children! She was happiest when she was busy going and doing, but her home and family always came first.
Vivian will be deeply missed by those who had the good fortune to know her. She is survived by her husband of sixty-nine years, Charles W. Grogan of Bartlesville, OK; son Gary Grogan and wife, Rev. Rebecca Grogan of Plano, TX; son Steve Grogan and wife Tana Grogan of Bartlesville, OK; daughter Susan Burris of Bartlesville, OK; grandchildren Jason, Michelle, Amy and Evan Nunley; Kevin Grogan and Grant Grogan; Chelsea Grogan and Ross Grogan; as well as five great-grandchildren. In addition, Vivian is survived by two sisters, Sue Greer and husband Ray of Bois D’Arc, MO; Mary Jo Brown of St. Petersburg, FL; brother Robert Reece of Bois D’Arc, MO; and a sister-in-law, Margaret A. Grogan of Bartlesville, OK; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter, Pamela Sue Grogan, and a sister, Betty Beckett.
A service celebrating Vivian’s life and legacy will be held in Springfield on Thursday, September 12, at 1:00 p.m., at Greenlawn North Funeral Home. Friends may sign an online guest book and leave condolences at www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Vivian’s name to the charity of your choice.