I have a dB of names with a blank row separating each grouping [a, b,
c etc], but every time I sort the list, the blank rows go to the top
of the spreadsheet. Is there a way to keep the empty row in place when
sorting? My interim solution is to end each group with az, bz, cz,
etc. Your thoughts are appreciated.

It's just a minor change, but you could begin each group with A, B, C, etc.
That would look the way an index is usually printed.

If you really need it to look blank, the text for A, B, C, etc. could be
made white -- or the same color as the background. You won't see it, but
it'll sort the way you want.