For Delores Groomes, business and community go hand in hand. As she celebrates 20 years with Brinson, Willams and Groomes Insurance and nearly three decades in the insurance industry, she reflects on her journey—from growing up in New Jersey to becoming a leader in Statesboro’s business and civic scene. Her path wasn’t always clear-cut, but with resilience, a strong work ethic, and the right opportunities, she has built a career and legacy rooted in both professional success and community impact.
Groomes’ journey to Statesboro began with a family move to Georgia, where she navigated the transition between two states before settling in Bulloch County. She initially worked in logistics in Savannah, but after a company downsizing left her without a job, she found herself at a crossroads. That’s when a chance encounter at a Georgia Farm Bureau Event changed everything.
“They were hiring, and I applied the next day,” Groomes recalls. “I had no background in insurance, but I was ready to learn.”
For nearly a decade, Delores Groomes worked at Farm Bureau, gaining expertise and building relationships. One of those relationships was with David Brinson, an agent who eventually left to start his own firm, Brinson & Dixon. In 2005, Groomes joined Brinson & Dixon as his office manager, playing a crucial role in the firm's operations and growth.
Her dedication and leadership did not go unnoticed, and in 2012, she became a partner, leading to the firm being renamed Brinson, Williams & Groomes—a moment that cemented her role as a leader in the industry.
“David gave me an opportunity that changed the course of my career,” she says. “Being a partner wasn’t something I initially envisioned, but it became one of the best decisions I ever made.”
Deep Roots in the Community
Beyond her professional achievements, Groomes has made an undeniable impact on Statesboro’s civic and cultural landscape. She serves as the Chairperson of the Downtown Development Authority of Statesboro, a board member of the Averitt Center for the Arts, and a leader in the Statesboro-Bulloch County Land Bank Authority.
Through these roles, she has helped revitalize downtown, support small businesses, and enhance the city’s arts and cultural scene. She is currently part of Leadership Bulloch and is set to graduate in May, further strengthening her commitment to serving and uplifting the community.
One of her favorite aspects of the Downtown Development Authority is welcoming new business owners.
“I love meeting entrepreneurs and hearing their stories—what brought them to Statesboro, why they chose downtown," she says. "It’s about more than just business; it’s about building a community.”
Her service doesn’t stop there. She has been a longtime supporter of Lift as You Grow, a program focused on mentorship and leadership development, and is actively involved in her church. Through these efforts, she strives to uplift those around her, a value that was instilled in her from an early age.
“I grew up in a neighborhood where everybody looked out for each other,” she shares. “That’s how I try to live my life—helping others, contributing where I can.”
Balancing Passion and Personal Growth
Even with her packed schedule, Groomes has found ways to prioritize her well-being. She was first introduced to CrossFit through Christina Gipson, the owner of a local gym. While initially hesitant, she eventually embraced it and now attends classes three times a week.
“I have a terrible time staying committed to any gym, but Christina keeps me accountable,” she laughs. “I love it—it keeps me balanced and makes me feel amazing!”
Her passion for movement extends beyond the gym. As a child, Double Dutch was a daily activity in her neighborhood in New Jersey, where kids would even wet a clothesline to make it heavier for jumping. She has since brought that love of jump rope to Borofest, where she organizes the Kids’ Area by Vyve.
“The kids love it! They think it’s the best thing, and I make sure to buy extra ropes so they can take them home after the festival,” she shares. “It keeps them engaged, active, and excited—and honestly, it keeps me young, too.”
Looking Ahead
As she looks back on her 20-year milestone at the insurance office, Groomes acknowledges that success isn’t just measured by business achievements, but by the relationships built and the impact made along the way. Her advice to young professionals balancing career and civic engagement?
“Pick carefully, don’t overload yourself, and remember that you don’t have to be on a board to make a difference,” she advises. “You can contribute in so many ways—find what fits your passion and capacity.”
Though she’s accomplished much, Groomes isn’t slowing down. She remains committed to strengthening the community, supporting local businesses, and spending quality time with her family, including her new twin grandchildren.
“With my grandkids, I see an opportunity to do things differently, to be even more present,” she says. “And now, owning a business, I have the flexibility to be there for them in ways I couldn’t always be when I was younger.”
As for the legacy she hopes to leave, “I want my grandchildren to be proud of my name, to know that I contributed to something bigger than myself,” she says. “And I want to help make Statesboro the best place it can be—for businesses, for families, for everyone.”
With a career built on dedication and a heart devoted to service, Delores Groomes is more than just a businesswoman—she’s a pillar of the community, and her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, opportunity, and giving back.
