Thomas Benjamin Groundwater of Springfield, Missouri, departed this life on Thursday, December 24, 2020 at Cox South Hospital with his loving wife and daughter by his side at the age of 79 years. Tom was born on October 20, 1941 in Pittsburg, Kansas to Thomas S. and Maxine (Towner) Groundwater. Tom graduated from Parkview High School in 1959. He also attended Columbia College. He was united in marriage to Mary Lafferty on April 14,1967. Tom was preceded in death by both of his parents and a sister, Miriam McCoy. Tom proudly served his country by serving in the Navy. Tom worked for 20 years at Dayco and retired from Springfield Public Schools.

He is survived by his wife Mary, a son Michael, a daughter Ronda Horton, 4 grandchildren, Sammy (Michael) James, Sonny Horton, Sierra Horton, and Skylor Horton. 2 great grand daughters Jillian and Jessie James, a sister Becky Gibson, and his fur baby Yuma.

Some of Tom's many enjoyments in life included going to a variety of sporting and school events of his grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time with his great granddaughters and traveling with his sweetie, Mary.

A Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at 2:00 pm at the Missouri Veteran's Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Klingner Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel.