Obituary

When you think of your best friend, confident, leader, and all-around person, who comes to mind? Frank Griffin.

On November 30, 2016, our best friend Frank Griffin transitioned to be with the Lord.  Frank is survived by his wonderful wife, Almetta C. Griffin, his children Gina and Frank II; his brothers Johnny, Rodney, and Kevin; his sisters Brenda, Joyce, Tanya (Toni), and Lisa; his brothers-in-laws Shermanm M. Sammye, and Lemuel; his sisters-in-law Zenobia (DocZ), Althea, Gwynelle and Gloria; his grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

On January 9, 1947 in Pine Buff, Arkansas, Bernice and Frank Griffin welcomed their eldest son, Frank, Jr. Because Frank was his parent’s first child, during his early years he enjoyed that attention you get from his grandmother and aunts. When Frank moved to Chicago, it was a challenge for him. It was the first time in his life he had to share. The lesson of sharing helped mold Frank to become the man he is today.

When Frank turned 17, he decided that he wanted to serve his country by joining the US Army. Frank used the Army to grow and develop along with welcoming every opportunity to experience what the Army had to offer. One of these opportunities offered to Frank was becoming a paratrooper; during a time when African Americans were limited to what they could do. Frank’s personality and willingness to learn continued to open doors for him. At the age of 22, Frank was honorably discharged.

Coming back to Chicago, Frank became a correctional officer. Through the years he moved up the ranks and upon retiring he had served as Captain for several years.

Frank, being single and carefree, met his life-long partner in a parking garage in Chicago. When he saw her, he knew that Almetta was the one. The years have been wonderful for Frank and Almetta. They understood what it would take to lay the foundation for a positive and good marriage. They are the best of friends, confidents, companions for each other and sometimes, girlfriend and boyfriend.

As a retiree, Frank was not a stay-at-home person. He needed to do something with his time, so he worked part-time as a security officer at one of the local colleges. While working his part-time job, he went to see his grandchildren in Arizona and got the Arizona bug. Then it was time to move.

Arizona offered Frank what he wanted in life, a beautiful home, sunny days, time with his family and his wife. Frank enjoyed sports, his grandchildren, travel, and working on his computer.   He loved doing puzzles to keep his mind sharp, reading, but most of all, his passion was music.

Frank did not ask for much, but was a simple man who gave much. When there was a need he was there. Frank touched all of our lives and even in his final days, he was still the rock.

Frank you are loved by your family and friends. You will be missed and not forgotten.

A viewing will be held at 10:00 am with a funeral at 11:00, Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034. Interment will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 1:30 pm.