Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald Chapel - Howell on Jan. 19, 2026.
Harry Evans Griffith, age 95 of Brighton, passed away peacefully on January 3,2026.
Born August 11, 1930, Harry's journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to family, the real estate profession, and community service.
Harry was married to his beloved wife, Mary E. Griffith, who preceded him on February 7, 2025. They were married for an extraordinary 72 years. Together, they raised a family that included their children, Scott (Diane) Griffith and Carol (Gerry Odom) Griffith; grandchildren, Sara (Tyler) Jones, Michael Griffith, Ashley Dewling, and James (Kelly) Dewling; great-grandchildren, James B. Dewling and Madelynn Jones; and nephews, Stephen (Florentia) Griffith, David (Terrie) Griffith, and Paul (Sandy) Griffith.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Captain Kenneth E. Griffith and Lillian Fern Bynaum Darnall Griffith, and brother Kenneth Griffith.
A proud graduate of Kemper Military School, where he developed discipline, responsibility, and mission-driven values that guided him through life. Harry graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in business and real estate. He remained a loyal supporter and contributor, reflecting his belief in education, leadership, and giving back. Musically, he loved the MSU fight song.
Harry was a member of the ROTC at Michigan State University and joined the Air Force upon graduation where he proudly served as a Captain. worked in
Washington, DC at the Pentagon before joining his father-in-law in real estate; Harold Crandall-Crandall Realty in
Howell, Michigan. Harry built a distinguished career in real estate, earning recognition and many leadership roles within the profession. Known for his honesty, wisdom, and steady leadership, he helped generations navigate important life decisions with trust and confidence.
Harry was deeply committed to civic service and community leadership. Harry was a Howell Rotarian since 1955(President 1959), 1st National Bank of Howell (Vice Chairman), Livingston County Board of Realtors (Past President), Michigan Association of Realtors( Director), Salvation Army -Advisory Board, Civil Air Patrol-Past Squadron Commander, Genoa Township-Zoning Board (past Chair), now Livingston County United Way (past Chair), Farmers Club, Farm Bureau - Member, First Presbyterian Church of Howell-Elder, Howell Carnegie Library, Howell Chamber of Commerce, Livingston County Masonic Lodge-Shriner, just to name of few.
Harry was known for his personal passions, including traveling the world with Mary. He had a lifelong love of golf, enjoying the sport's challenge and the camaraderie it brought. Golf was one of the many ways he connected with his grandchildren, encouraging them to participate with him as a team on every golf charity he could. His office was filled with trophies.
Harry found solace and happiness on the "farm" and loved the outdoors with animals and pets. The cottage provided many hours of peace, family entertainment, and fish stories. One of Harry's greatest joys and pride was talking and sharing real estate with his son, daughter, and grandson, who have carried the tradition of real estate in Livingston County since 1924.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11AM at First Presbyterian Church of Brighton, 300 E. Grand River, Brighton, with visitation beginning at 10AM.
In lieu of flowers the family encourages community donations to Livingston County United Way or Trinity Health Livingston's area of greatest need (checks payable to Trinity Health Office of Philanthropy, mailed to: Trinity Health Michigan PO Box 7410140, Chicago, IL 60674-0140)
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harry, please visit our floral store.