C.E. "Chuck" Griggers Sr.

Charles E. Griggers, Sr., affectionately known as “Papa” went to be with his Savior on August 30, 2015. Or, as Papa would say he kicked the bucket! He was born in Macon, Georgia in 1934, to Robert and Sallie Griggers and was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Harold Griggers, sisters, Hazel Freeney, Bivie Kavasky, infant sister Betty Ann and Edith Davis.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn P. Griggers, son, Chuck Griggers and his wife Connie, daughter, Karyn Walentoski and her husband, Gary. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Anna and Mary Griggers, Sophie and Nicholas Walentoski, brothers, Willis A. “Bubba” Griggers and his wife, Margie, Jack Griggers, and his sister, Ida Cooper and many nieces and nephews.

In 1953, he graduated from Lanier High School for boys. During his high school years, he worked at Warner Robins Air Force Base. At the age of 18, Papa enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and completed boot camp at Parris Island, SC. After serving at several bases, he was stationed at the Atsugi Air Base in Japan. His squadron was VMJ-1, the only Marine Photographic Reconnaissance Unit in the Pacific. He served as an aircraft mechanic on the F2H-2P Banshees and the F4U-5P Corsair Aircraft. His commanding officer was Lt. Colonel Marion Carl. Papa was very fond of his days in the Marine Corps and was proud to serve his country. Once a Marine, always a Marine! Semper Fi!

After being honorably discharged, Papa began his career with Dixie Belle Textiles (Greensboro, NC) as a Sales Representative for several states. After retirement, he kept busy with part-time opportunities and met a variety of wonderful people who became long term friends.

Papa loved socializing with old friends. He was always ready to discuss politics and history and anything else. He would engage in conversation with anyone. He never met a stranger.

Papa had a variety of interests. He enjoyed music from the 1950’s, classical musician Richard Clayderman, and pop artist, Anne Murray, among others. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, fishing, playing cards, and college and pro football.

His two favorite past times of all were watching his favorite actor, John Wayne, and reading. Papa read every book he could buy, borrow or trade. He could talk about any subject since any topic was of interest to him.

Papa was very proud of being a 32nd degree Mason for over 55 years. He often spoke of the Mason’s support of the Masonic Children’s Home of Georgia and the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital.

Papa fought the good fight. He was a 15 year cancer survivor and thankful to have maintained a good quality of life for many years.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Papa’s memory to the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital, Masonic Children’s Home of Georgia or your favorite charity.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Friday, September 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel Mausoleum of Macon Memorial Park with the Rev. Joe McDaniel officiating. The family will greet friends on Thursday, September 3, 2015 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Visit www.maconmp.com to express condolences.

Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery has charge of the arrangements.