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John Griffin Obituary
GRIFFIN
BARTOW - John Richard Griffin, age 81, passed away on February 18, 2016, at his home in Bartow surrounded by his loving family. Born in Bartow on August 27, 1934, to John M. and Bessie (Miller) Griffin. Mr. Griffin was a member of the U.S. Armed forces serving during the Korean Conflict. Mr. Griffin worked as an educator for the Polk County School Board where he served as a shop teacher at both Mulberry and Bartow High Schools in addition to owning and operating his farm. He was of the Baptist faith, serving his Lord as a member and deacon of First Baptist Church of Bartow.
Mr. Griffin is survived by his wife of 50 years, Annette Griffin; one son, Jerry Hawthorne (Elizabeth); grandson, David Hawthorne; bothers, Dr. William Griffin, DVM (Barbara) and Emmett Griffin (Margie); nephews, Ken Griffin and Dr. Keith Griffin, DVM; niece, Janis Turner; and sister, Pat Allen (Don).
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the roofing fund of First Baptist Church of Bartow.
The family will receive friends Sunday, February 21, 2016, from 1:30 - 2:00P.M. with services at 2:00P.M. at Seigler Funeral Home - Chapel. Condolences may be sent to [email protected].
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seigler Funeral Home- Mulberry, FL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Griffin
Mike Clark
June 9, 2017
Mr. Griffin, (a.k.a., "Grip" due to his firm hand shake") was my teacher and a friend of mine while in Bartow High School. He was a man of integrity and good values. He taught us far more in high school (drafting) than they teach in college. It was my pleasure to be his student and I hope to see him again...
Cathy (Adkison) Blair
February 24, 2016
Uncle Richard, You have done your job and done it well, helping many kinds of people in their time of need. You have taught us all the gift of Laugh,may the Lord look down upon your family and cherish their hearts with the many memories of your love . Love you Aunt Ann and Jerry
Wanda Smith
February 22, 2016
So sorry for your loss. It is such a wonderful feeling when we know that we will see our loved ones again. Mr. Griffin was a great teacher.
Ronna Livingston
February 21, 2016
Ann, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband...sweet memories are the purest of treasures. I love you and will hold you tight in loving prayers to our Father God. Hugs to you and your family.
Nanette Clark
February 21, 2016
Miss Ann, I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Richard. I am so honored that I could be a part of both of your lives, even if it was for a short time. My Love and prayers are with you.
Janice (Adkison) Cruz
February 21, 2016
Aunt Ann & Jerry. Hold tight to memories for comfort,lean on your friends and family for strength.and always remember how much you are loved. Uncle Richard will be missed.
Debbie Miller
February 21, 2016
I was so saddened to learn of the passing of John Richard Griffen. He was the kindest sweet spirited, biggest hearted gentleman I think I have ever met. Through his life as a teacher he touched and I am sure changed the direction of a lot of students life's for the better. My deepest sympathy and condolences to his beautiful wife Ann, son Jerry Hawthrone and other family members during this time. Prayers for God to wrap you in his loving arms and give you peace and comfort.
Margaret Tucker
February 21, 2016
Aunt Ann so sorry. Uncle Richard will be missed. The jokes and stories he would tell where so funny. He was a good man and I know you, Jerry and Dusty will miss him. You are in my prayer. Love you with all my heart.
Renee Adkison
February 20, 2016
Uncle Richard you will be missed. You taught me that life is too short to wait until after dinner to have dessert! Love you!
Jean Cumming
February 20, 2016
Ann, Sorry to hear of Richard's passing. Troy thought very highly of Richard. Maybe they will meet again in the land where we never grow old! You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers! Jean Cumming, Dana and Lori.
Richard (Danny) Mann
February 20, 2016
RIP Mr. Griffin. You were my shop teacher at BHS for school year 82-83 and I still remember your wit and humor. Though I probably made no impression on you, me writing this note should certainly show how much of a positive impression you made on me.
Madge & David Ruff
February 19, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless!!
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