David Franklin Grober

In Loving Memory of David Franklin Grober

April 24, 1944 – July 4, 2026

With heavy hearts, we reflect on the life of our patriarch, David F. Grober, husband of Sally Ann Mulhern Grober.

Born on April 24, 1944, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, David was the son of David E. Grober and Virginia “Jean” Gower Grober. He grew up in Fort Smith, graduated from Fort Smith High School, and continued his education at the College of the Ozarks and Westark College.

David proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966. After his military service, he dedicated 17 years to Frontier Airlines before becoming a business owner, operating Grober Transfer & Storage. He was also General Manager with Geno’s Pizza, where he formed many lifelong friendships.

He was a devoted Christian man whose faith wasn’t just something he spoke about—it was something he lived every day. He was a former member of Grand Avenue Baptist Church and was a current member of Spradling Church. He led our family with kindness, integrity, laughter, and unwavering love. He was the kind of man who showed us what it truly means to be a husband, a father, and a grandfather.

One of the greatest love stories we have ever known belonged to him and our grandmother. They had been together since they were just 14 years old and married in 1962. Through every season of life, they chose each other again and again. Their marriage was a beautiful example of commitment, friendship, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

He had a wonderful sense of humor and could always make people smile. His laughter, wisdom, and steady presence made everyone around him feel at home. His life reminded us that strength can be gentle, faith can be quiet, and love is shown in the little things done consistently over a lifetime.

While our hearts ache because we will miss him deeply, we find peace knowing he is now in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served. His legacy will continue through every lesson he taught, every life he touched, and every memory we hold close.

Thank you for showing us what a life well-lived looks like. Thank you for loving your family so faithfully. Until we meet again, we love you, and we will carry your example with us always.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

David is survived by his beloved wife, Sally Mulhern Grober; his daughters, Lisa Grober Payne and husband Jeff Payne, and Barbara Grober Schultze and husband Robert Schultze.

He was the proud grandfather of Samuel David Miller, Madison Miller, Cami Henning and partner Jeremy Madden, Roland David Henning and wife Morgan, and Roni Shelby.

He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Jayden David Foster, Gabriel David Miller, Chayden Foster, Riley Henning, and Oakley Shelby, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

He is also survived by his brother, Edward Grober and wife Kathy, along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

David was preceded in death by his father, David E. Grober; his mother, Virginia “Jean” Grober; his step-mother, Ruby Milam Grober; his Aunt Verda Grober who helped raise him, his sister, Karen Grober Jenkins; and his brothers, Jerry Milam and Jerry “Ned” Grober.

Visitation will be Wednesday July 8, 2026 from 6pm-8pm at Lewis Funeral Home on Kelley highway in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Funeral service will be Monday, July 13th, at 9:30am at Lewis followed by graveside at the National Cemetery at 11am.