Robert Carey Griffin

Robert Carey Griffin, age 71, of Jackson, Tennessee, passed away on September 27, 2025. Born on June 2, 1954, and raised in Watertown, Tennessee, he lived a full and vibrant life devoted to his family, faith, and community. 

Carey was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Juanita (Fite) Griffin; his brothers, Clyde Smith Jr. “Smitty” (Brenda) Griffin and Charles “Chuck” (Linda) Griffin; and his sister, Donna (Charles) Jones. 

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 52 years, Debbie (Hill) Griffin; daughters Heather (Mark) Dixon and Meagan (Stephen) Jordan; son Grant (Lauren) Griffin; and six grandchildren who were his pride and joy: Lily, Benjamin, Harrison, Harper, Elizabeth, and Lucille. He is also survived by his sister, Danita (Michael) Griffey, and many nieces and nephews.

 A man with an unforgettable personality, Carey was ever the jokester, quick with humor that brought laughter to every gathering. He was a captivating storyteller, always sharing unbelievable-but-true adventures that friends and family never tired of hearing. He was a lover of all sports (but especially golf and college football) and a “fixer of all things.” Whether woodworking, cooking, or tackling household projects, Carey was known for his creativity, skill, and determination. A lifelong outdoorsman, he found peace in hunting and fishing throughout the seasons. 

In his younger years, Carey gave back to his community as a coach for the Lebanon Optimist and Kiwanis Little Leagues. His faith was central to his life: he served as a deacon in the Lebanon Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and as an elder and Sunday School teacher at the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Jackson. Carey was also a proud member of the Comer Masonic Lodge 417 F&AM of Watertown, the Nashville Scottish Rite, the Grand Commandry Knights Templar of TN, and the Al Menah Shriners Hospital Temple of Nashville. 

Carey worked diligently in the vending industry for 40 years, beginning his career with Automatic Food Service Incorporated of Nashville, then with Servomation and Service America, and ultimately retiring from Canteen Jackson, TN, a division of the Compass Group.

 Above all, Carey was devoted to his family. He loved them fiercely, provided for them tirelessly, and leaves behind a legacy of humor, generosity, and faith. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt (in honor of his granddaughter Harper), Shriners Children's Hospital, or St. Jude’s’s Children’s Research Hospital, all causes close to Carey’s heart. A private memorial service will be held for family at a later date. 

P.S. This isn’t goodbye. As Carey would say, “I’ll see you in the funny papers.”