James David Griffith

Born July 21, 1951, in Roswell, New Mexico, James, known to most as “Rooster,” was the son of James William Griffith and Wilma Hite. He grew up alongside his siblings Albert “Al” Griffith, Jeannie Muse, Bea Crowley, and Michelle Miles-Harman. From an early age, he carried a strength, independence, and grit that defined the man he became.

At just 17, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served honorably during the Vietnam War as a Specialist 4 (SP4) and received numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Marksman (M14). Though he rarely spoke of his service, he carried it with quiet pride—a reflection of his humility and character.

After returning home, he met the love of his life, Joyce Evelyn “Joy” Griffith, and together they built a life rooted in resilience, mutual support, and unwavering commitment, raising their children—including three he loved and cared for as his own.

Rooster dedicated his life to the oilfield, beginning at the very bottom and working his way up through hard work and determination. From roughneck to driller and eventually toolpusher, he earned every step with grit and perseverance. He was a no-excuses kind of man—someone who showed up and worked through rain or shine, sickness or injury, doing whatever it took to provide for his family without complaint.

Outside of work, Rooster found joy in fishing and he enjoyed mechanic work and fixing things. Even at home, he stayed busy—often outside “piddling” in the yard, fixing, building, or improving something without ever slowing down. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. Known for his sharp wit, he kept everyone laughing with his stories and one-liners. He was also a mentor and father figure to many, earning the deep respect of all who knew him.

Above all, he cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and in his later years, his softer, more tender side shined brightest—especially in the love he gave to his great-grandchildren. His love was steady, strong, and often unspoken, but always deeply felt.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joy Griffith; his children, Christina Navarro (Arnold Navarro), David C. Guillen Jr. (Mindy Guillen), Tabatha J. Pittman (Chad Pittman), and James A. Griffith (Cassie Griffith); his sisters , Jeannie Muse and Bea Crowley; and his grandchildren, Brooke, Tori, Kimberly, Tyler, Justin, Lexi, Aria, Haleigh, Kaleigh, and Paige, along with their spouses, many cherished great-grandchildren, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James William Griffith and Wilma Hite; his brother, Albert “Al” Griffith; his daughter, Jennifer Marie Chasity Griffith; his grandson, Colton Trae Vaughn; and his grandmother, Fanny Estelle Haas.

A visitation will be held on April 28, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home, 601 N. Alleghaney Ave, Odessa, TX 79761.

Funeral services will take place on April 29, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.

A graveside service will immediately follow from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, 6801 E I-20, Odessa, TX 79762.

Lunch will be provided afterward at First United Pentecostal Church Family Center, 1801 N Jackson Ave, Odessa, TX 79761.

Guests are encouraged to wear red, white, and/or blue, patriotic, or military attire in honor of Rooster’s service.

Rooster will be remembered as a man of grit, loyalty, and unwavering strength—a soldier, a provider, a mentor, and the backbone of his family. He didn’t always say much, but when he did, his words spoke volumes. And even in silence, his love was always there—steady, strong, and enduring.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the family he built.