Obituary
Robert Vernard Griffis
(January 14, 1930 - October 7, 2020)
ROBERT VERNARD GRIFFIS lived 90 years
in service to his country, his community, and his family. Born January 14,
1930, Griffis died at his home at Woodlands Retirement Community on Oct. 7,
2020, with family members by his side. He is preceded in death by his wife,
Patricia Ray Griffis, parents Vernard and Helen Griffis and sister Carol
Arrowood Griffis. He is survived by three daughters, Melanie Griffis Hooper,
Teresa Giles (Michael) and Emily Stephens (Tim); nine grandchildren, Anna
Fure Schnetzler (Nate), Ellen Fure Smith (Anthony), Brandon Giles, Austin
Giles, (Angelique), Jason Stephens (Sarah), Paul (Shelia) Stephens; Michael
Stephens (Kaytee), Nina Rottgen, (Drew) and Cassie Stephens-Saylor and
(James Saylor). He was very proud to be the great-grandfather of 15, and a
host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. Griffis is
also survived by his special friend, Janice Gold. Griffis first showed his
strength when moving from his childhood home in Quinnimont, West Virginia,
in Fayette County to Huntington for school, then enlisting in the US Army in
1951, serving as a paratrooper in the 187th Airborne RCT. He completed more
than a dozen combat jumps in the Korean War during his three years based in
Japan. After his discharge, Griffis continued his career as an educator,
mentor and leader. Entering the world of education as a teacher and
principal, moving to the central office as a supervisor and coordinator,
then retiring as associate superintendent of Cabell County Schools. Griffis’
teaching assignments ranged from elementary through college and graduate
school. He envisioned and implemented the West Virginia Public Television
System, and actively consulted with the federal government and service
branches to create educational programs and training. His community
contributions extend across the region as a Rotarian, member and leader at
Beverly Hills United Methodist Church, as well as state and national
leadership in educational professional organizations. His awards and
accolades are numerous. He was the first recipient of the West Virginia
Department of Education Leader of Learning Award. Other recognitions
included, Huntington High School Hall of Fame, The Distinguished West
Virginian Award and several others. In 1999, the Griffises moved to
Woodlands Retirement Community. His service continued as a member and chair
of the Leadership Council and audio-visual wizard, making the Hampton Room a
modern facility for projection and performance. He spearheaded the
establishment of the Woodlands Croquet program, supervising the development
of the court and as commissioner of the Croquet League. He was a frequent
performer with the Woodlands Warblers. Griffis’s great love lives through
this family, sharing his passion for music, astronomy, croquet, gardening,
ping pong, adventure, the Herd. His legacy is large and we will miss him. A
private service will be held Saturday, Oct. 10 at Beard Mortuary in
Huntington.
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