John Francis Griffith

John Francis Griffith, 88, of Orange, Texas, passed away on December 30, 2025, at Stonewood Hospice.

Born in Paris, Texas on January 30, 1937, John was the only son of Francis Milton Griffith and Ruth Elizabeth Griffith. He was a remarkable individual who lived a life filled with dedication and love for his family, friends and community. He attended The University of Oklahoma where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. He graduated in 1960 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He had a successful career as a mechanical engineer at DuPont for over 35 years, retiring as a Senior Engineer. Beyond his career, John proudly served in the United States Navy and later retired as a Commander in the Naval Reserves.

John was a true gentleman known for his humility and strength. He excelled in every endeavor. He was Salutatorian of the 1955 graduating class of Hugo, Oklahoma. He was an Eagle Scout and one of his fondest memories was a trip to Valley Forge to the Boy Scout Jamboree. He cherished time spent with his two sons, and he served as their Scout Master and also on the board of the Pony Colt Baseball Association. His contributions extended beyond his family. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church where he taught the young married Sunday School Class, ushered, and served on the church board. For many years he served as head of the Orange County Appraisal District Board. John was a loyal supporter of LCM Baseball for some 50 years and could be found at every game. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication. One that will continue to inspire those who follow.

He is preceded in death his parents, Frank and Elizabeth Griffith. He is survive by loving wife of 66 years, Gail Crowder

Griffith; sons: Dr. John Gregory Griffith and wife, Tracy; Steven Griffith and wife, Lana; grandchildren: Megan Griffith, John Griffith, Gage Griffith, Morgan Womack and husband, Landon, Sydney Hannon and husband, Martin; Great grandchildren: Hattie and Gage Womack; nieces Kelly Smith and husband, Danny and Susan Crowder; brother-in-law, John Crower and sister-in-law, Jeanette Crowder and other family members.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff of the Stonewood Senior Living for the excellent care and the love they provided for John; especially Dustin, Dillion, Ashton, April, Emberly, Keith, Shannan and Chaplain Louis Schexsnayder. You were wonderful beyond words.

Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas. Visitation will be Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Burial of ashes will be on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Hugo, Oklahoma.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to: St. Judes Children's Research Hospital P.O. Box 1893 Memphis, TN 38101-9950, Texas Children's Hospital 6621 Fannin Street Houston, TX 77030, or to Shriners Hospital for Children 2900 N Rocky Point Drive Tampa FL 33607.