Willard Eugene Griffin

Bill, as he was known by all, is survived by his second wife, Shirley Griffin (née McClure); his siblings, Ruby Shockley, Wanda Stone, Mary Kronisch, Thomas Griffin; his children, Dorothy Johnson, Robert Griffin, Betty Cantrell, James Griffin and Linda Griffin; and numerous grandchildren and their families. He is predeceased by his first wife; Ora Griffin (née Reynolds); and siblings Robert Griffin, Roy Griffin, Donald Griffin, and Ronald Griffin.

Bill was born on July 27, 1927 in Strickler, Arkansas to Tom and Birdie Griffin. The second oldest of nine siblings, Bill grew up working for neighboring farms. On February 19, 1947, he married Ora Reynolds who he first met at church in Arkansas. On December 8, 1947, June 11, 1949, November 20, 1951, November 23, 1954 and August 28, 1956 respectively, he welcomed his five children: Dorothy, Robert, Betty, James, and Linda.

Bill and Ora with the rest of the Griffin family migrated to Washington on June 17, 1947; finding various jobs as a laborer and union worker, until eventually moving to Yakima in 1949. His work as an iron worker took him to numerous projects including St Lawrence Seaway Project in New York, as well as the Priest Rapids, Wanapum and Wells Dams in Washington state. After moving to Kent in 1968, Bill continued working as an ironworker until retiring in 1987.

Bill had a great love for fishing – and sharing this love with others – he was often known to give up his spot on the bank, or on the raft, to others so that they could be successful in fishing the hole. He also enjoyed to water-ski, where his skill was such, that he often started and landed on the shore – never getting wet above his suit. He also loved to garden. His backyard was often full of numerous flowers, vegetables, and raspberries. And he loved woodworking. Always loving to work with his hands, he made numerous clocks, baskets, racks and other items for his friends and family.

“Billy the Kidder”, as many called him, had a great sense of humor, always quick with a joke and a smile; he was the teller of a good story that ended with laughter. His genuine love for family and others was also seen in the various ways he helped his children and grandchildren, friends, and the community. Whether it was building an addition to a home, or church, reroofing a house, putting up siding, or building a deck, he was never one to say no – and always smiled as he worked.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, July 29, 1:00 pm at Greenwood Memorial Park and Funeral Home. A graveside service will occur immediately following. Flowers, donations, and condolences may be offered at Greenwood (350 Monroe Ave NE, Renton, WA 98056). A reception will be hosted at Dorothy and Tim Johnson’s home at 3701 NE 11th ST, Renton, WA 98059 following the services.