Zack Griffith (Courtesy)

Mr. Zachery Reeves Griffith, affectionately known as “Zack”, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens. He was 37.

Born in Elberton on November 2, 1988, Zack was a son of Paul Frank Griffith, Jr. and Cynthia Jane “Cindy” Childs Griffith. He was a 2008 graduate of Hart County High School. Zack enjoyed watching TV, playing video games, and walking his beloved dog. Like most Griffiths, he was an avid Clemson fan.

Zack was diagnosed at an early age with medulloblastoma, a fast-growing cancerous brain tumor. He underwent surgery at age 4 to have the tumor removed, followed by several weeks of extensive radiation therapy. Zack suffered the after effects of radiation for the remainder of his life, the most recent being a stroke four years ago. Our hearts are broken that he has left us, but we find peace in knowing that Zack is free of the constraints of life and has been reunited with his beloved grandparents: Paul Frank Griffith, Sr. and Patsy Reeves Griffith, Jane Fortson Childs, and Kathy Koeller Childs.

He leaves behind his devoted parents and caretakers, Paul and Cindy Griffith of Hartwell; brother and sister-in-law, Cory and Ashley Griffith of Commerce; niece and nephew, Ava and Brennan; grandfather, Russell Childs of Locust Grove; aunts and uncles: Maria and Michael Mariorenzi of Cranston, Rhode Island, Patricia Griffith and Andrew Guthrie of Atlanta, and Bruce Childs of Elberton; and a host of cousins whom he loved dearly.

A time of visitation and reception honoring Zachery’s life will be held on Friday, January 23, from 5:00p.m. until 7:00p.m. at The Station of Hartwell, 43 Railroad Street, Hartwell, GA 30643. Casual dress is encouraged during this drop-in event celebrating Zack.

A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 24, at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Elberton, GA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. Zachery Reeves Griffith.

This announcement courtesy of the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell.