James Wilford Griffin Sr., 88, of Williamston, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 19, at Vidant Beaufort Hospital.

Mr. Griffin was born on June 7, 1929, to the late Joseph E. and Cletie Griffin of Williamston, and he graduated from Farm Life School. He married the love of his life, Mary Dean Hardison Griffin, in 1951, and they enjoyed 57 wonderful years together. In 1952, he began his employment with Virginia Electric Power Company (VEPCO), where he would eventually retire as a senior real estate specialist.

A loyal member of Piney Grove Baptist Church, Mr. Griffin loved God and his church family. He faithfully served as a deacon, treasurer, Sunday School superintendent and teacher, choir member, and a “Message of Easter” cast member. Mr. Griffin also loved the Farm Life community and its people. He was a charter member of the Farm Life Ruritan Club, having held offices at both the local and national level throughout his 52 years of perfect attendance. He also served as a Farm Life Scoutmaster, a member of the Martin County Economic Development Commission, and a “Math Mates” volunteer at E.J. Hayes Elementary School.

Mr. Griffin loved music, and he was blessed with a beautiful tenor voice. He enjoyed sharing his talent as a member of the Kinsman Quartet, the Melody Masters, the Farm Life Quartet, the Arthur Smith Variety Show, and the Piney Grove Quartet.

Those who knew and loved Wilford will especially miss his keen sense of humor. Even in his recent months of declining health, he often amused his family, his friends, and his caregivers with his quick wit.

Mr. Griffin is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Dean Hardison Griffin, as well as 14 older brothers and sisters. He is survived by his son, James Wilford Griffin Jr. and wife, Deborah; daughters, Mary Lane Baker, Amy Griffin Taylor and husband, Durward; grandchildren, Rachel Lane Baker, William Griffin Taylor, Colby James Griffin, and Robert Shane Griffin; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other close relatives from both the Griffin and Hardison families.

A celebration of his life will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at Piney Grove Baptist Church with Larry Stephens and Billy Crabtree officiating. Burial will follow at Tice’s Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Piney Grove Baptist church and other times at the home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Piney Grove Relay for Life Team, c/o Piney Grove Baptist Church, 2925 Piney Grove Church Road, Williamston, NC 27892, or the Farm Life Ruritan Club, c/o Michael Rodgerson, 4420 Fire Dept. Road, Williamston, NC.

Arrangements are by Biggs Funeral Home.