Howard Griffin

After losing his battle with cancer, Jerry Griffin went to be with the Lord on February 20, 2021 at the age of 81 surrounded by his loving family. Jerry is survived by his wife, Angi Griffin, his sister, Brenda Stowe, his children Shelley Little (David), Buddy Griffin (Karyn Carlton), Matt Fields (Elizabeth Burgos), Diana Golan (David); his grandchildren Logan, Aubrey, Maci, Leeya, Destiny, Karter, and Kenzlie; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Pinkney Bruce and Lillie Mae Griffin, brothers J.B., Ralph, and Bill Griffin, his sisters Toni Hunnicutt, Gwen Gwinnup, Peggy Baumgardner, Bruce Griffin Dulin, and Carol Sutton. Jerry was born in Charlotte, NC on July 19, 1939. He graduated from Harding High School in 1957. He attended Central Piedmont Community College, focusing on a degree in Transportation Management. Jerry worked in the transportation industry his entire working career, with the majority of that being at Watkins Motor Lines where he traveled extensively. On September 3, 1994 he married Angi, whom he would tell you was the love of his life. After they were married, Jerry and Angi united each of their loving families. With the arrival of his first granddaughter, he willingly became a doting Papa. As time went by and more grandchildren were born, he quickly became the sunshine of their hearts and the center of their world. Jerry was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and he loved fishing, boating, traveling, and spending time at the beach with his family. He led an active lifestyle before becoming ill and enjoyed playing tennis with his long-time friend Sam, who jokingly called themselves John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors. After retiring from Watkins, Jerry turned his infamous business acumen to managing his rental properties throughout Lakeland, FL. Jerry’s tenants loved him and his family learned to embrace the term, “It’s a rental!” He was a kind and generous man who gave great hugs and will be deeply missed. A private family service is scheduled in the beautiful back yard of the family’s home by the lake. In lieu of flowers donations should be made to your local Hospice organization.