David Lynn Griffin

David was defined by his kindness, unwavering compassion, profound love for family, and faith. He passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of music, service, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Born in Burlington on July 7, 1960, to Sandy Davis Griffin Jr. and Lorraine McWhirter Griffin, David was the youngest of four brothers with a 17 year age span between them. He is preceded in death by his parents and oldest brother Michael.

David attended UNC Chapel Hill, graduating with a degree in Pharmacy. His time in Chapel Hill shaped his professional path and ignited a lifelong passion for medical sciences. He began his career with the Upjohn Company. His expertise and dedication led him to several companies, ultimately concluding his career as an Executive Medical Sciences Liaison with Takeda Pharmaceutical, where he was respected for both his intellect and integrity.

David’s greatest joy was his family. He and his wife Beth were high school sweethearts whose enduring love story spanned nearly 43 years of marriage. David loved Beth deeply and treated her like a princess. Everywhere they lived, David made lasting friendships and found new ways to serve the Lord. As a father to Kevin and Kyle, David was their anchor. Despite the frequent travel demanded by his career, he was fully present in his sons' lives. He coached their sports teams, taught them how to throw a frisbee, and shared with them the joy of being in the ocean.

David served the Lord through music. For the past 20 years, he was a dedicated member of First Cary, where his presence was woven into the fabric of church life. David lent his extraordinary musical talents to every worship service by playing the piano, ringing handbells, and supporting various choirs. He also served on numerous committees, quietly working behind the scenes to support impactful missions. Notably, he was on the board of Music Made In Heaven, a community group dedicated to honoring the memories of children who have passed away through the beautiful, healing gift of handbell music.

He was an avid sports fan, especially passionate about his beloved UNC Tar Heels. A fixture at Kenan Stadium and the Smith Center, he held season tickets to Carolina football and basketball for decades. Never one to be considered a "fair-weather fan," David’s dedication was clear when he famously attended a football game during a literal hurricane.

In recent years, retirement granted David the time to play the piano as much as he wanted, celebrate everyday life in simple ways with Beth, and treasure every minute with his grandkids. To Beckett (9), Aubrey (7), Frances (2), and newborn twins Celeste and June (1 month), he was a fun, deeply loving, and fully engaged Poppa who brought endless joy to their lives.

David lived a life resonant with faith, harmony, and loyalty. While he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now resting in the peace of the Lord he served so well—and that he will have the best seat in the house for the next Tar Heel national championship run.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in David’s memory to support the ministries and causes that were closest to his heart:

First Cary United Methodist Church

www.firstcary.com

Music Made In Heaven

www.musicmadeinheaven.org