James Alan Groves, 54, linguist, seminary official

James Alan Groves, 54, a linguistics expert of the Old Testament and vice president for academic affairs at Westminster Theological Seminary, where he taught and founded the Hebrew Institute, died of melanoma Monday at his home in Glenside.

Raised in several Midwestern states, Mr. Groves earned a bachelor's degree in arts in 1975 and in engineering in 1976 - both from Dartmouth College. In 1977, he was ordained a Protestant minister in Laconia, N.H., and was pastor for three years at the Congregational Church in West Fairlee, Vt. He also earned a master's degree in religion in 1981 and a master's degree in theology in 1983 - both from Westminster Theological Seminary in Cheltenham Township.

Starting in 1983, Mr. Groves taught the Old Testament at Westminster and held many administrative positions, including dean of students, and was vice president of academic affairs from 2005 until his death.

In 1983, he founded the Hebrew Institute at the seminary. He applied his skills as an engineer to computerize the Old Testament, eventually making it available in Hebrew fonts with hyperlinks. He also devised several databases for translation of biblical studies.

Mr. Groves and his wife of 28 years, Elizabeth Davis Groves, created a blog at www.algroves.info, where they posted theological reflections and health updates.

Throughout his life, Mr. Groves was captivated by basketball, which he played until being diagnosed with cancer last year. "He said you could tell important things about a person by their actions on the court . . . if they were selfish or team-oriented," his wife said. "Al was a team player . . . he let his teammates shine."

In addition to his wife, Mr. Groves is survived by daughters Rebeckah and Eowyn; sons Alasdair and Alden; parents James and Jacqueline; two brothers; and a sister.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. tomorrow at the New Covenant Church, 7500 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Burial is private.

Memorial donations may be made to the Needy Student Fund, Westminster Theological Seminary, Box 27009, Philadelphia 19118.