Leland Kenneth “Kenny” Grooms, Jr., 61, of Marshall, IL, passed away Saturday, February 21, 2026, in the comfort of his home with his family by his side. Kenny was born June 20, 1964, at the Army Base in Ft. Campbell, KY, the son of Leland Kenneth Grooms Sr. and Jacquetta Roszell Grooms. On June 17, 1989, he married the love of his life, Beth Pancake, in Marshall, IL. He is survived by his devoted wife, Beth; his son, CJ (Michelle) Grooms of Marshall; his daughters, Kassie Carpenter and Addison Grooms, both of Marshall; and his cherished grandchildren, Cash “Cash man” Carpenter and Hallie Jo Carpenter. He is also survived by his mother of Marshall; his brother, Kelly (Tina) Grooms of Marshall; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Floyd and Barb Pancake; along with several nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his father; his brother, Michael Cary Grooms; and his brother-in-law, Jason Pancake. Kenny was a proud member of Arcola Lodge #0366 and a graduate of Marshall High School and Ivy Tech. He had a lifelong love of sports, especially baseball and softball, and rarely missed cheering on his favorite Cincinnati teams, especially the Bengals.More than anything, Kenny will be remembered for the time, heart, and energy he poured into the youth of his community. Through Marshall Little League—where he currently served on the board—and as one of the founders of the Marshall SheCats, Kenny dedicated countless hours to coaching, mentoring, and encouraging young athletes. His softball girls held a special place in his heart. He was their biggest supporter, their steady voice from the dugout, and a coach who cared deeply about the young women they were becoming both on and off the field. For many years, he coached both baseball and softball traveling teams, forming lasting relationships and leaving a meaningful impact on the families he served. Kenny believed strongly in community, teamwork, and showing up for others. Outside of the ballfield, he was an avid hunter and fisherman and a member of the Marshall Coon Club. He could often be found mowing his yard or working in his garden. Above all, Kenny loved his family fiercely and took great pride in being part of the Marshall community. He was known for his strong opinions, his loyalty, and his deep belief in tradition and doing things the right way. Kenny’s presence on the field and in the community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by the many lives he touched.Services in honor of his life will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, February 27th at Pearce Funeral Home with his friend, Scott Sutton, officiating. Burial will follow in Marshall Cemetery. Visitation will be 4–7 PM Thursday at the funeral home.For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the family for a memorial Lion. Online condolences are being accepted at pearcefuneralservices.com