Samuel "Sam" Gerald Griffin, Sr. transitioned to be with his Lord and Savior on June 19, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his family and his faithful companion Bear. Born June 16, 1935, to Joe Tom and Janie Pope Griffin. He was predeceased by his siblings, JT Griffin, Calvin Griffin, and Nancy King.

He served in the Army from 1958 to 1965. He was stationed in Germany during part of this timeframe. He retired after 30 years of service with the Department of Corrections as a maintenance supervisor. After retirement, he served the community through the Black Water Regional Library, where he enjoyed a new adventure. He loved farming, fishing, and woodworking. He especially enjoyed serving others with household repairs in the community. He joined Boykins Methodist Church at an early age, where he found a growing relationship with the church family. He was a deacon of both Newsoms Baptist Church and Sunbeam Baptist Church.

He is survived by Linda Baugham Griffin, his wife of 65 years. Two children: Samuel Gerald Griffin, Jr. (Carol), and Rhonda G. Culpepper (Steven). Sibling: Ronald P. Griffin (Mary Ann).Grandchildren: Deric Everett (Denise), Clinton Keyser (Crystal), Amber Wallace (Chad), E-5 Missile Technician for the US Navy Jardin Keyser (Emma), Travis Keyser (Raven), Jenna Culpepper (Emmett), Darion Colon (Kaile). Great-grandchildren: E-3 Gunnersmate for the US Navy Tayler Everett, the late Jonathan Moulder, Jessica Schuner (Travis), Kyle Jarvis, Saphira White, Solace White, Hayden Wallace, Codi Johnson (Kyle), Michael Wallace, Cali Balusek (Brent), Greyson Keyser, Harper Keyser, Emmiliegh Keyser, Madison Keyser, and Millie Colon, and six great-great-grandchildren. Special Sister Barbara Pannell from Conover, NC. Sister-in-law Mildred Arrington. Special Nephews: Tommy Griffin (Shiela), William Arrington (Patricia), and the late Bruce Arrington; Special Nieces: Connie Springs of Ohio, Diane Arrington, and Anita Brown.

Pallbearers serving are Deric Everett, Clinton Keyser, Jardin Keyser, Chad Wallace, Gary Culpepper, and Blair Bunn.

The family would like to thank Bon Secours Hospice by Compassus staff  (Alyssa and Felicia), AmeriCare Plus (Helen), and Caregiver Ashley.

The family would also like to remember the spiritual supporters through the years, Reverends John Williams, Kenneth Williams, John Watson, Willis Switzer, Michael Baugham, and Tom Wallace.

The funeral will be held at 2 PM, Wednesday, June 24, 2026 in Wright Funeral Home, with Pastor Michael Baugham and Pastor Tom Wallace officiating, burial to follow at Hollywood Cemetery, Newsoms. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home and suggests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to your favorite charity.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org