Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
THOMAS GRIFFIN Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for THOMAS GRIFFIN
Sponsored by Mulligan.
Al Stover(Berlin Brigade 1983-85)
December 7, 2024
I was just speaking of Gen. Griffin just the other day. I served in Berlin under his command and as a very young soldier I had chosen him as my re-enlistment officer and I backed out. I was called to his office and was sure I was getting ready to be ripped to shreds by him but he did nothing of the sort. He spoke to me calm and understanding saying that all he was concerned with is me making the best decision for me and my family. That is a conversation that has stuck with me until this day. Thanks for your compassion, rest on and REDLEGS all the way sir!!!(slow hand salute)
Corporal Tim Roberts
September 25, 2024
Hello Mrs. Griffin and family. Corporal Tim Roberts here. I drove for General Griffin in Berlin. And after all of these years later, I still have my Berlin bear. I stumbled across this obituary and am so sorry for your loss. It is only because he is still in stories of mine, sharing with my family, did I want to find out if I could locate him.
Jim Appell
September 20, 2024
Tom Griffin was the man you would want for your father. I feel so guilty that I was unable to attend a "celebration of life' for him.
I worked for "Tom" as he wanted to be addressed as Tom not General Griffin. He was General Manager of our office of Wells Fargo Alarm Services in Washington DC. I served in US Navy during Vietnam war.(Non-Combat). I worked for some very respected officers at that time but after knowing Tom I can understand why any one would follow him in to any combat situation. He was a man of the highest leadership quality and caring for his subordinates. "He was a class act". He was loved by all in his civilian leadership as he was in the military. God, please bring us more Tom Griffins.
My sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Very respecfully yours,
Jim Appell
Manning Calhoun
April 6, 2024
General Griffin was the Best Man at Linda´s and my wedding. He was a One of a Kind Wonderful man and will be missed and remembered forever.
Manning Calhoun
Jeff Arter
March 24, 2024
I was stationed at AFSouth while LTGen Griffin was the Chief of Staff. Here is a photo of LTGen pinning the Joint Service Achievement Medal on me back in 1990.
SFC Terry Fowler
January 27, 2024
I served in Berlin in 1984-1987
Under LTG Griffin when he was
A Brigadier General and we called him Papa Bear he would have a Brigade run once a Month with the whole Brigade and he would come down to the EOC Emergency Operations Center during Christmas and bring us a box lunch and check to see how we were doing I got to talk with him several times and knew what a great General he was he really cared about his troops, and we loved him as a leader and a good family man
He will be missed
SFC Terry Fowler
Retired USArmy
James R. Armour
February 21, 2023
Served with this General officer when he commanded the Berlin Brigade. Extremely personable, he was a enlisted man's General who demonstrated a genuine concern for all of his soldiers....
B. W. Becker
February 2, 2023
General Griffin made the Third Armored Division something in which I shall always have been proud to serve. Had war broken out, I had total confidence that "Griff" would've lead us to victory.
Charles Ricke
July 14, 2022
I was searching thru the internet looking for my old units and commanders and found the passing of a wonderful leader. MG Griffin was my Division Commander in 1986-1988
during my time in Kirch-Goins Germany. 3rd Armor Division. He was a fantastic leader and admired greatly by his soldiers.
Karl Semancik
May 28, 2021
I recently was informed of the passing of General Griffin. General Griffin was my senior rater when I commanded the 22nd Chemical Company and he was the ADC M for the 3rd Armored Division. General Griffin was a phenomenal leader and mentor to this young officer. He was also a great sponsor of the 3rd Armored Division (Frankfurt American) Rugby team. He supported us and graciously attended and was our honored guest at a reunion for the team which was held in 1993. He was a great soldier who will be sorely missed. god bless you sir. Karl A. Semancik Sr., Colonel (USA) retired
Timothy Dale Newell
November 11, 2020
I had the honour and privilege of serving under General Griffith twice. Once as a member of Berlin Bridge B, Co. 6th Bn 502nd Inf. and
D, Co 5th Bn 5th Cav. 3rd Armored Div. Infantry. God bless you and your family. RIP.
Meg Sinclair
November 11, 2020
We were very honored to have served under BG Griffin at 503rd Military Police Co, 3rd Armored Division in Germany. We would have followed him anywhere. He loved each and everyone of his troops and we loved and respected him more than we can express with words. He confided with us that he loved his MPs and band the most. I have a feeling he told every unit they were his favorite.
We are so grateful to have spent time with him during a 3rd AD reunion (see picture). He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Sir.
Marty
June 15, 2020
my condolences to the family of the man who had the greatest impact in my military career which came to retirement in 2011.
I just learned of Gen Griffins passing as I have been thinking of him this last week. I was his pilot in 1989 when he was 3AD commander and Gen Powell was V Corp Cmdr. He is an amazing man who God utilized to help shape myself and many others.
Rest in peace my friend until that day we shall meet again in a place that has no bounds or limitations. Martin Stauber CW4 Ret
BARRY ALLAN
May 28, 2020
I was in Berlin attending ceremony for my brother-in-law Maj.Nicholson and Gen.Griffin heard that I was a golfer and invited me to play where I witnessed the following...
On one hole he sliced his tee shot which hit a tree and he responded.."Major make a note to have that tree removed!"
On another hole he had a 4ft. putt to tie the hole and he turned to the LCL and said "this looks good to me!" Then LCL said General I think I'd like to see you putt that..whereby Gen.Griffin said "this is a gimme Major!!
A true patriot and gentleman!
David Osborne
May 18, 2020
I were saddened to learn of General Thomas Griffin's passing. He was a true leader, mentor and patriot. I had the honor of serving as his driver in the 3rd Brigade, Camp Howze, Korea. I was blessed to see him just after the New Year and reminisce about the many memories during his time as the Brigade Commander. I will always refer to him as General Griffin. He was like a Father to me as I was a new soldier in the Army at that time in 1978. He will be truly missed. Rest In Peace until we meet again.
David Osborne
Dale Clay
May 16, 2020
I was his helicopter crewchief in Germany 1982-1985 R.I.P in (Fiddlers Green)
May 10, 2020
General Griffin was a fantastic leader and a simple man. I enjoyed talking to him. He will be missed forever, Spearhead! Albertus-Hugo Van den Bogaard
4Mar88_MG Thomas N Griffin-MG Joulwan 3d AD Change of Command
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
4Jun86-MG Richard G. Graves-MG Thomas N. Griffin Jr. 3d AD Change of Command
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
88 3AD-5th Panzer Div Cdr MG Wilhelm Jacoby Center With Beret
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
88 3AD-5th Panzer Div Exercise
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
87 3D Armored Division HQ Office
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
4Jun86 3AD Change Of Command MG Graves-MG Griffin Inspection of Troops
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
86 May 3AD Graves Griffin Change Of Command Announcement Stars and Stripes Newspaper
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
28Mar88-3AD Promotion Griffin MG to LTG
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
4Jun86-MG Richard G. Graves-MG Thomas N. Griffin Jr. 3AD Change of Command Program Inside
Christine Borton
May 9, 2020
'87_MG Thomas N. Griffin Jr. CG, 3d Armored Division_waits for his Blackhawk_5th Panzer Div Exercise
Christine Borton, SGT (Ret) USA
May 8, 2020
To the Griffin family, thank you for contacting me to let me know of General Griffin's death. I am deeply moved and have told countless family and friends in the past week about my experience working for him. Between 3d Armored Division and 1st Armored Division I worked for 8 general officers (1984-1996). I served with many of the people who wrote these messages acknowledging the greatness and impact of this stellar Military Commander. I worked for LTG (then MG) Griffin when he came from the Berlin Brigade to Command 3d Armored Division in Frankfurt until he headed to AFSOUTH in Naples. Everybody acknowledged General Griffin as a Soldier's soldier, always looking out for his troops. There are a dozen stories I could share, and I'll do that in the next weeks. I'm adding a photo here of his time with 3d Armored Division.
I have watched the February 2020 West Point Oral History Interview of General Griffin and in many cases, he acknowledged his NCOs while he was a young Lieutenant and Captain. I found him still relying on his NCOs as a General. He called out the heroics of many of his officers, never hesitating to give them credit for his success.
The Army is a better place because of the soldiers he commanded, and the world is a better place because of the lives he molded.
Jane, Tom, Ginny and Molly you have my sincere condolences. May your most lingering memories be of the joy and good times you shared. A giant of a man has joined the legions of angels in heaven. I pray God will bring you peace and hold your hearts close.
Spearhead Six Sierra
Bob Harvey
April 19, 2020
Martha and I were deeply saddened to hear about LTG Griffin's passing. With the exception of my parents, he was without a doubt the most influential person in my life and I believe in everyone's life he touched. He provided superb guidance to us all and cared deeply for his soldiers. We thank you for sharing him with all of us. The world is a much better place because of LTG Griffin.
Bob Harvey USMA Class 1971 G4
Ann Muir
April 17, 2020
Jimmy and I were so saddened to hear of Tom's sudden death. We have the best memories of Tom's and Jane's visits to our Kailua beach home. We spent many hours on the beach enjoying each other's company. Tom was a true gentleman and a lovely friend. We send our love to Jane and to his family. Ann
Crist Dickey
April 17, 2020
An inspirational leader. I was honored to serve in his command. RIP Sir!
April 17, 2020
He was a friend and an inspiring leader. His life will stand as a memento to excellence and caring- an example of the true professional military officer. Donna and I send condolences to Jane and the family.
Dale
April 15, 2020
He had chow with me when I was a green soldier (18). After chow, he had me in his office asking me various questions before changing my orders and getting me in the proper tank unit. I'll never forget that day . What an awe inspiring, yet magnanimous leader !!!
John Houck
April 14, 2020
Hes was a great Commander who will be missed dearly, a soldiers soldier
Maury Mussa
April 14, 2020
General Griffin was my tactical officer when I was a cadet at West Point. He was a Major at the time. He was instrumental in my staying at West Point when I was contemplating leaving the Academy. He embodied the traits I most cherished as a leader. I have often spoken of General Griffin to others as one of the most revered people I have had the opportunity to know. During my career in leadership roles I have often asked myself what would (Major) Griffin had done. My sincere condolences to his family. He will be missed. I am thankful to have known him. Maury Mussa. Minocqua, Wisconsin.
Franklin Lott Sr
April 14, 2020
I had the privilege to serve in the 3D Armored Division when LTG Griffin was the Assistant Division Commander and again when he was the Spearhead Division Commander. During both periods I served as the Division Color/Honor Guard NCOIC. LTG Griffin was a friendly, joyful, and caring soul that loved his soldiers. He was a soldier's General. I am proud to have served under such a leader and his command as a Spearheader!! We have lost a wonderful human being and Leader.
Dick Beale
April 14, 2020
I was Tom Griffin's DISCOM Commander during his entire tenure as CG, Third Armored Division. He was a great commander, and he and Jane were a great command team. Wynne and I were fortunate to be the Griffins' next door neighbors for nearly two years and became life long friends. We mourn Tom's passing and will continue to hold up Jane, Tom, Ginny and Molly in our prayers.
Steven Kuhn
April 13, 2020
I have never experienced a leader like General Griffin that. A soldiers soldier who recognized the character in those who made mistakes and built up instead of focusing on shortcomings.
I had many a conversation with this great man between the years of 1987 and as recent as last year. Having served under him in the military to dining with him as a civilian, his care, interest and compassion was always evident. Truly an exceptional soldier, leader and man. My condolences to the family. May he rest in peace. I salute you sir, thank you for the priceless memories.
Spearhead
Stan Luallin
April 13, 2020
The General was a great leader, mentor, and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jane and the family during this time of loss. The memories will live on in the soldiers he led.
Steve Stromvall
April 13, 2020
In 34 years as an Army civilian, I never met a better officer or a better man. It was an honor and a joy to serve with him in Berlin.
Gary Caines
April 13, 2020
I had the honor and privilege of having some very good discussions with General Griffin at the Association of Third Armored Division Veterans at the 2018 reunion. I was very impressed. Although I didn't serve under General Griffin, I did serve with the 2/36th Infantry / Third Armored Division in 1970 - 1971 in Kirch-Goens, Germany. General Griffin was very interested in my experiences during that time.
Gary L Caines
April 13, 2020
He was a Great Leader and cared about his soldiers , I was very proud that I new him and he was our Div Commander in 3rd AD , During Cat 87 first US Team to every win Cat
Miri Newcome
April 13, 2020
Great commander and mentor on so many levels. Not to mention just a really sweet guy. A pleasure and honour to serve with.
Jean (John) Burleson
April 13, 2020
Hearing this just breaks my heart...I served as LTG Griffin's Executive Officer and Aide de Camp at AFSOUTH, Naples, Italy. He was the most caring, sincere and humble General Officer I have ever met. He and Jane were like family to us and we loved them both dearly. My heart aches. We have lost one of the best men I have ever known. May God bless him and his family during this very sad time.
Dave Bruner
April 13, 2020
Terrific leader of men and extremely proud to have served under his command. Prayers for his family and most sincere condolences.
Norm Hoerer
April 13, 2020
As a very young USMA cadet under his leadership, he was my first and best example of what an Army Officer - and a man - should be. His example has stayed with me ever since.
Jeff Schaefer
April 13, 2020
General, you will be missed by all of us you've touched through the years. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, Spearhead!
Vic Bero
April 13, 2020
We are better to have known LTG Griffin. Not only was he an exceptional Infantry commander, he was an even better man. That blend of professionalism and genuine personal values, made him special and unique amongst us. He now rests with our Lord. Well Done Sir. Our deepest condolences to Jane (and yes, his better half as he would agree) and his family. Your Berlin Brigade family will not forget you.
Roger Matzkind
April 12, 2020
It was my honor to serve under him as one of his JAGs in Giessen. He was a true role model. My condolences and respect to his family.
Donald Mann
April 12, 2020
I was blessed to be a Spearhead Soldier and to have had the General in my life. I don't recall many commanders names or faces from my time in the Army, but I fondly remember him. Rest in peace "Grandpa Griffin".
Sergeant Daryl Twigg, U. S. Army Military Police Corps (Ret)
April 12, 2020
Served under LTG Griffin as a Military Policeman with 3rd Armored Division in the mid 80s. One of the finest Generals to serve under, and will always remember his leadership of the Division, and support of his troops. God speed Sir. SPEARHEAD.
Frank Army
April 12, 2020
My time in service was highlighted by working for BG Griffin,then Brigade Commander, Berlin Infantry Brigade, my personal condolences for the family. God Bless.
aaron cowger
April 12, 2020
Prayers for family & friends. Thank u sir my brother in arms. for your service to our country.
MAJ Tom Walko
April 12, 2020
LTG Griffin was an outstanding leader, mentor and man. He kept mission first, but always had a genuine concern for his men.... He will be missed.
SPEARHEAD!
K. Dexter
April 12, 2020
I served in Mortar Platoon 3/36 Inf 3rd Armored Division when General Griffin was the Division Commander. He was a great leader and he always motivated the troops. I knew that he would never ask anything of us that he hadn't already done himself or wouldn't be willing to do himself.
Craig Gabbert
April 12, 2020
LTGT Griffin was our TAC for USMA Company G-4 and he was loved and respected by all. My Fistie year I give him credit for my strips and appointment as 4th Regimental XO when he got his promotion to LTC and became the Regimental XO. He always had a smile on his face and loved his job. I still benefit from serving under him and am honored to be one of his troops. He will be missed.
Dale Judy
April 12, 2020
Large RESPECT!!!!! Leader with a big heart
Willie Bowman
April 12, 2020
Stationed here in Berlin, je was a Great Solider and a very Great Human Being. Will miss you Gen. Griffen. I enjoyed bring under your Command in the BERLIN BRIGADE.
Joana Samad
April 12, 2020
As an Army Veteran, it was my honor to serve under General Griffin's command as a 3rd Armored Division soldier and one of his; as he always said, Military Police.
Not only was he a phenomenal leader, but a phenomenal person. We will miss him dearly and will always be "His MPs". Rest easy sir, we have this!
Joana Samad, SSG (Veteran)
A3ADV, MP
David Thornton
April 12, 2020
General Griffin was my commanding general while serving in the 3rd Armored Division . A great leader. He really enjoyed spending time with us while training for Cat 87 . My sincere condolences to your family .
Dale Clay
April 12, 2020
My condolences to the family I served with General Griffin in Germany 1982-1985. I was his helicopter crewchief he treated his whole staff like family until we meet again at Fiddler's Green.
Sgt.
April 12, 2020
A Leader to be followed.
Steve Genser
April 12, 2020
One of the finest officers I ever served under or with. Berlin Brigade
April 12, 2020
I will miss Tom so much as my wonderful next-door neighbor since 1998. He was such a kind, caring and witty man who always had such great stories to tell. I can hardly look out of my side windows without expecting to see you working in your yard. You will be always remembered, and always missed. My condolences to Jane and all his family.
Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results
Make a Donation
in THOMAS GRIFFIN's name
Memorial Events
for THOMAS GRIFFIN
How to support THOMAS's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor THOMAS GRIFFIN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
