James "Jim" Griffin

James “Jim” Griffin, 79, of Arlington, Texas, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on September 5, 2025.

Jim was born on December 7, 1945, in Canton, Ohio, to Chester and Mildred (Stoner) Griffin. He attended Canton City Schools and was a proud graduate of Lincoln High School. As a young teenager, Jim accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior—a decision that would guide and shape his entire life. He was a faithful member of Canton Baptist Temple during his early years, where he joyfully directed music and sang in the choir, using his God-given talents to glorify the Lord.

In 1965, shortly after graduating high school, Jim began working at Republic Steel Corporation. That same year, he married the love of his life, Karen (Tschantz) Griffin—a marriage that would become a steadfast and loving union of nearly 60 years. Later in 1965, Jim answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. He served with courage and honor during the Vietnam War, including the Tet Offensive, and was honorably discharged in 1968.

After his military service, Jim returned to Republic Steel before relocating to North Canton, where he worked for 10 years at The Hoover Company. In 1980, he moved his family to Texas and began a remarkable 44-year career in the industrial wholesale plastics industry, retiring from WIPCO in Dallas in 2024.

Jim had a strong work ethic, often working two jobs to provide for his family. Yet, he always found time to be involved in his children's lives—umpiring and coaching little league, cheering at sporting events, and creating cherished memories on family vacations. He was a loyal fan of Ohio sports, especially The Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland teams. He also found joy in music, with a deep appreciation for southern gospel quartets, the old hymns of the faith, The Statler Brothers, and oldies rock and roll.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim’s life. Whether at home, at church, or on vacation, he truly cherished time spent with those he loved. At the time of his passing, Jim was a devoted member of Trinity Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, Texas, where he found a true church family who brought him encouragement and fellowship.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Kenneth Beck, Robert Griffin, and Chet Griffin; sister Doris Blake; and beloved grandson, Alexander Backs.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Karen (Tschantz) Griffin; sons Stephen (Heather) Griffin and Scott (Joy) Griffin; daughter Staci (Tony) Backs; grandchildren Autumn Backs, Aidan (Cherie) Backs, Ashton Backs, A.J. Griffin, Abby Griffin, Hannah Claire Brooks, and Hope Brooks; his brother Bill Griffin; and cherished sisters-in-law Marlene Griffin and Pam Bissett. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends who will remember him for his strength, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Jim’s life was a testimony to the grace of God—a life lived in service to his family, his church, his country, and his Savior. Though he is absent from the body, we rejoice that he is now present with the Lord.