John Lee Griffin

John Lee Griffin, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and faithful public servant, entered eternal rest on January 14, 2026, at the age of 78. John was born on March 19, 1947, to the late Lillie Mae “Kinner” Griffin and Archie Griffin. He was raised in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, where he attended Wilkinsburg High School and graduated with the Class of 1965.

Immediately following high school, John answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1970 and was discharged with multiple ribbons and commendations, a testament to his bravery, dedication, and patriotism.

Following his military service, John was employed as a Wilkinsburg Police Officer followed by working for U.S. Steel in Homestead, Pennsylvania. He later pursued a career in healthcare and social services, where he worked at the VA Hospital as a CNA, and drug and alcohol social worker. His work reflected his deep compassion and commitment to helping others. John retired in 2009 after many years of faithful service.

In 1980, John married his high school sweetheart, Judith Diane “Frazier” Griffin, and together they shared a loving bond and many cherished years.

John was the proud father of three children: Dawn Tatrice Gibson, John Douglas-Lee Griffin, and Juanita Lynn Griffin. He was a loving grandfather to Auzia Bryant, Dante Bryant, and Ronnell “Minners” Bryant, and a devoted great-grandfather to four: Journni (daughter of Auzia), Dante (son of Dante), and Bloom and Shiloh (children of Ronnell).

He is also survived by his siblings: Robert Archie Griffin, James Stanford Griffin, Tina Griffin, and Lawrence Albert Griffin.

John’s life was further enriched by a host of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, adopted family, and countless friends who loved and respected him. In his leisure time, John enjoyed playing and umpiring softball, riding his motorcycle, channel-surfing, and spending quality time with his loved ones. Above all, he took great pride in being a United States Marine— an identity he carried with honour for the rest of his life. John will be remembered for his strength, service, loyalty, humor, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on through the generations he leaves behind and the many lives he touched along the way.

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