I wanted to share my Dad's obituary with those of you that don't live in Texas and didn't have access to a local newspaper. I also included my tribute to him. I know that all of you that knew my Dad will be moved by it.
In loving memory of Jerry Mac Griffis.
Born August 9th, 1949 in Brady Texas.
Died November 22nd, 2011 in Payson, Utah.
Proceeded in death by his parents, John and Clara Griffis.
He is survived by his two children:
Laura Griffis-Potter and husband Pat of Sandy, OR. and
John Allen Griffis II of San Marcos, Tx.
Three grandchildren:
Mac, Lilly Belle, and Lil' Griff Potter of Sandy, Or.
One brother:
Johnny Griffis and wife Lola Kay of Alpine, Tx.
Two sisters:
Sharon Griffis Coody and husband Joe of Pecos, Tx.
Beverly Griffis Hathorn and husband Doug of Pecos, Tx.
He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and many, many dear friends.
He loyally and honorably served his country in the Vietnam War from
January 10th, 1969- November 16th, 1971.
Service & Burial
Hillcrest Cemetery in Ft. Davis, Texas
Saturday, December 3rd 2011 at 11:00 a.m. with a gathering to follow at Pam and Buster Mills home.
Officiant- Oscar Medley
Tribute-
Laura and John wish to express their sincere thanks for all the prayers, support, flowers and other expressions of love during this time of bereavement.
Our Dad was always a great provider- so great that he gave us his all without the need for us to ever ask for it. He was a man of integrity and devotion. A man who understood a hard day's work. He worked his entire life to take care and provide for his family.
He served his country in the Vietnam War and defended our freedoms with tremendous courage, honor, devotion and loyalty. He is a true American Hero.
His core accomplishment has always been John and I. Our Dad poured vast amounts of love and energy into our lives everyday. He always held our hands in his- and helped us navigate and discover life and the world around us.
He pushed us when needed, stood next us when needed and carried us when we needed it most.
He was so strong, so loyal and so steadfast in ALL he did. He was a man of few words, and when he spoke- all listened because we knew it was well worth listening too.
Dad worshiped at the feet of honesty, honor, loyalty and integrity. People talk of these values, but Dad LIVED them and embraced them. The many awards/medals and accolades that he received during his lifetime for his dedication, hard work, loyalty to family, friends and his country and the RESPECT that we all have for him are a testimony to this.
Dad always soldiered on bravely, no matter the circumstances. He was more concerned about the people he loved than any discomfort or pain he may have been in. To all of us he was a very kind person and was always there to help. He never wanted to be acknowledged for anything he did. When he helped, he simply helped.
His grand-kids were one of his greatest joys in recent years. He knew that LOVE to them was spelled T.I.M.E....and quality time is what he gave them. He spent every second he could building a deep bond that will always stay with them. They will always remember their special times and love from Grandpa Tex.
He was bigger than life, tougher than nails, stubborn and hardheaded. It made us all love him that much more.
As a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, friend, veteran, cousin and amazing grandfather, he leaves us with many memories, stories and an honorable legacy. Always remember him and everything he shared with us. We will carry on our Father's Legacy and keep him with us always.
In His Grip-
Laura Griffis-Potter & John Allen Griffis II
