Grocontinental founder Ray Grocott dies aged 89

Ray Grocott, the former owner of Grocontinental has passed away.

Based in Whitchurch, Ray built Grocontinental into one of the country’s leading storage and distribution firms and shared his successes by funding several community projects. 

 His philanthropic endeavours included a £1m donation to fund a new medical centre in Prees and an £800,000 donation to build eight new bungalows for older people next to the surgery. Ray also supported Prees cricket and recreation club for more than 35 years, refurbished the nursery at Prees Primary School and provided a specially adapted bus for the Bradbury care centre in Whitchurch.

 Ray’s daughter, Linda Grocott, said, “Dad will be remembered for the success he achieved in his working life, but we know that he will also be remembered for the support he gave to others through his kindness and generosity. Dad never saw barriers in life, just a clear way forward to get the job done, no matter what it was. He was intelligent, positive and always wanted to give people an opportunity and a chance in life.

 “He touched the lives of so many people worldwide and was proud to support the staff we employed over the years at Grocontinental. In his own words, ‘it’s all about people’. He loved life and having lost his own parents so young, always made sure he lived life to the full. He had a special connection with young people to whom he always spoke honestly and openly. Having shared an office with him for 36 years, I can honestly say he was an inspiring boss and, most of all, a supportive and loving husband and family man.”

 Ray is survived by his children Ruth, David and Linda, son-in-law Hugues, daughter-in-law Kirsty, Linda’s partner Robin and grandchildren, Louis, Charlie, Alfie, Honor, Minnie, Mia and Natasha. A service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday 14 October at St Chad’s, Prees at 13:30.