Christine Grace Hargrove

Click HERE to watch Christine Hargrove's Memorial Service Live.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christine Grace Hargrove on August 24, 2023. Born on August 22, 1928, in Wood County, Texas, to parents Fred and Mary Chap Stedry.  Christine was very proud of her Czech heritage. Christine lived a life filled with love, joy, and a deep connection to her community.

Christine was proud to call Quitman, Texas, her home. After graduating from Quitman High School in 1946, she ventured to Dallas and began her career at Southwestern Bell in the Billing Department. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Tommie Curtis Hargrove. They tied the knot in 1950 at her sister Connie's house.

After many years in Dallas, Christine and Tommie moved to Homer, then Beaumont, before finally returning to Quitman in 1974. It was back in her beloved hometown that Christine found her true purpose - working for Quitman Schools as a dedicated cafeteria worker. For 25 years, she served meals to countless students, earning their affection and adoration. Christine retired in 1996, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of both staff and students.

Outside of her professional life, Christine had a passion for recreation and community engagement. She was an avid reader and player of dominoes, often joining friends at Forever Young Activity Center. Christine found solace in her daily walks through her beloved neighborhood, appreciating the simple beauty of nature surrounding her.

Often she would enjoy eating a raw onion with her meals. It was a quirky preference, and it became a cherished part of her identity amongst her loved ones.

She is preceded by her parents, Fred and Mary Chap Stedry; husband Tommie Curtis Hargrove; two brothers; four sisters; and grandson-in-law Jerry Butley.

Christine will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Teresa Whitaker and husband Dave; son James Hargrove and Beverly; sister Rose Valek; grandchildren Ashley Butley, Justin Hargrove and wife Tara, Jacob Whitaker,  and Nolan Whitaker; great-grandchildren Caleb, Noah, and Annie Butley; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and her countless friends and extended family members.

Visitation will be held on September 9, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Lowe-Gardner Funerals & Cremations, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.

In honor of Christine's memory, her family kindly requests donations be made to: Quitman Public Library: 202 E Goode St, Quitman, TX 75783; Liberty Methodist Church: 2581 TX 154, Quitman, TX 75783; Meals on Wheels Wood County: 302 S Stephens St., Quitman, TX 75783 ; or Reflections Hospice: 502 E Goode St Suite 2D, Quitman, TX 75783.