James Griffith "Griff" Finley III

Gather: 12:00 p.m.
Chapel: 12:30 p.m.
Houston National Cemetery: 1:30 p.m. (In Procession)

Military Honors Presented By:
United States Navy
Houston Honor Guard

James Griffith Finley III, known to many as "Griff," passed away on August 27, 2025, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 72.

Born on October 18, 1952, in Wellington, Texas, James was the beloved son of James Griffith Finley II and Edith Imogene (Powers) Finley. He grew up with a strong sense of curiosity and a love for words, which later led him to earn a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Texas-Pan American and dedicate much of his career to teaching high school English and ESL.

From 1977 to 1983, James proudly served in the United States Navy during the Cold War. His shipmates gave him the nickname "Finback," a title he carried with pride and fondness throughout his life.

On December 15, 1984, James married the love of his life, Sonia Alvarado. Together, they built a family rooted in love and laughter, raising two daughters, Meagan Finley Treanor (married to Joseph Treanor) and Samantha Gene Hollyfield (married to Nathan Hollyfield). James and Sonia made their home in McAllen, Texas, where they resided for over 40 years. He took great joy in being a father, helping with ballet performances, celebrating milestones, and always offering encouragement. He and Sonia believed in supporting even their daughters' wildest dreams, including their goal of becoming professional ballerinas, which they achieved with their parents' unwavering devotion. James was a steady anchor for his daughters, someone they could count on for wisdom, laughter, and support.

James especially loved being "Grandpa" to his grandson, Kylian Alexander Hollyfield. The two were inseparable best friends, and Kylian was one of his greatest joys. Kylian reminds everyone of James's silly, wild, and whip-smart spirit, carrying forward the joy and humor that James shared so freely. He also dearly loved his nieces and nephews and was a constant source of encouragement and love in their lives.

James devoted most of his teaching career to Valley View High School, where he inspired generations of students with his love of literature and language. After retiring, his passion for teaching led him back to the classroom at Covenant Christian Academy, the school his daughters attended, where he continued to share his joy for English and History with young minds.

James is survived by his wife, Sonia; his daughters, Meagan (Joseph) and Samantha (Nathan); his grandson, Kylian; and his siblings: Kimberly Morin (Michael), Heidi Burns (married to Randy, who preceded her in death), and John Mark Finley. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Beyond his career and service, James had a lifelong love for the ocean, the outdoors, motorcycles, and off-roading adventures. He and Sonia shared many journeys, often taking to the open road side by side, partners not only in marriage but in adventure. James was also an active member of the Motorcycle Ministry through The Family Church in McAllen, where he combined his love for riding with his heart for serving others. One of his greatest joys was delivering turkeys on Thanksgiving to families in need.

Music was another central part of his life. James was a devoted fan of The Beatles and enjoyed playing both the guitar and piano. He had the joy of seeing legendary bands like The Beatles, Willie Nelson, and Queen live in concert, experiences that deepened his love of music. He passed this passion on to his children, filling their lives with the same timeless songs. Whether strumming a song, riding with Sonia, or serving his community, James approached life with joy, curiosity, and an open heart.

James is remembered for his service, his devotion to his family, his generosity, and his enduring love of adventure and music. His faith was evident in the way he loved his family and served his community. Above all, he treasured the life and love he shared with Sonia, his wife of 40 years. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Join us to celebrate his life at the Veterans Funeral Services, 10567 Veterans Memorial Dr., Houston, TX. The gathering will begin at 12:00 PM, with a Chapel Service at 12:30 PM. Interment to follow at Houston National Cemetery with Military Honors.