GILBERTSVILLE – James R. Griffin, 71, of Gilbertsville, formerly of Muhlenberg County, passed away Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Marshall County.
He was born on January 8, 1955, in Eldorado, Illinois, to his late parents, Bernie and Betty Baker Griffin. James loved spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed fishing, with catfish being his favorite, and could often be found casting a line in Buckhorn Bay and Demumbers Bay. He also had a passion for hunting and cherished the companionship of his beloved golden retriever, Shyla Grace Griffin. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and was known for helping others whenever they were in need. James was of the Baptist faith and retired as a pipe fitter after a long career as a proud member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 633 in Owensboro, Kentucky, where he had been a member since 1979.
James is survived by his wife of 45 years, Terri Gray Griffin; three sons, Jason Griffin of Gilbertsville, Jordan (Heather) Griffin of Muhlenberg County, Cody Griffin of Gilbertsville; two sisters, Pat Drysdale and Mary Harper, both of Paducah; four brothers, Vernon Griffin, Mike (Toni) Griffin, Jerry (Evon) Griffin, and Raymond Griffin, all of Illinois; nine grandchildren, Hannah (Zach) Sadler, Abby Griffin, Ellie Griffin, Avery Griffin, Abel Griffin, Kylee Griffin, Brennen Griffin, Bladen Griffin, Rynlei McCormick; five great-grandchildren, Willow, Chance, Asher, Tripp, Aspen; and one more great-grandson on the way, Waylon.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in James’ memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorials Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, or online at www.stjude.org.
Memorial Services will be Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11AM at Tucker Funeral Home in Central City with Rev. Bobby Allen officiating. Burial will be private. Visitation will be Saturday from 9-11AM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com. Tucker Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.