DR. JOHN W. DEGROOTE

Dr. John Webster DeGroote, age 89, passed away on May 10, 2026, at Singing River Hospital. John was born in Iowa and spent his younger years in Humboldt. His Grandfather DeGroote is credited with nurturing his desire for learning by giving him access to National Geographic magazines to read. Both grandfathers cultivated his love of the outdoors by teaching him to fish and hunt. Opening day of hunting season would often find John and his best friend in the fields before the start of the school day. A parent could report to the school for the boys, and they would not be reported absent.
Upon graduation, John attended the University of Iowa Medical School in Iowa City. He served as the chief resident during his tenure at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. Two events occurred—first, he realized that he needed an interpreter with him when he interviewed patients as he could not understand a thing they were saying; and secondly, he discovered that winters could actually be warm! This was a positive impact on his decision to move to Pascagoula in 1974.
John loved working in medicine. He was constantly reading medical journals and periodicals when a patient would present an issue he did not understand. He loved his patients and expected them to participate in their care by complying with instructions.
Teaching was also a priority with him. Training nurses and young doctors in correct procedures made it easier when interacting with patients. His motto was always “see one, do one, teach one.”
John may have been the last physician who made house calls on patients, two Saturdays a month in the latter years of his practice, up until he retired.
After retirement he became an avid gardener, taking pride in the vegetables he grew. He enjoyed travelling across the country, especially the high plains and Federal parks.
Even though he may have retired from the public sector, he had many opportunities to counsel his extended family in their ever-increasing problems that aging brings! He was dearly loved and will be missed by all.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold W. DeGroote and Marianne J. Liewen DeGroote; brother, Doug; sister, Rosemary.
Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Sharon Massey DeGroote; son, Thomas B. DeGroote; adopted son, John S.; daughters, Jessica and Jerusha; brother, David (Amy) DeGroote; brothers-in-law, Jimmy, Kenny and Ronnie Massey; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Raley, Shelia Dement and Judy McLeod.
The visitation was held Thursday, May 14, at Moments Funeral Home. The Funeral Service was also held at the funeral home chapel with Bro. Ken Hart officiating. Burial followed in Winborn Chapel Global Methodist Cemetery. Pallbearers include Braxton Martin, Kohen Martin, Jarrod Massey, Mike McLeod Jr., and Jason Avera.
Moments Funeral Home, locally owned and operated, is honored to be in charge of arrangements.
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