James R. "Griff" Griffey

James R. "Griff" Griffey, 52, of Harrisburg died at home on January 1, 2016 after a short but valiant battle with cancer. Jim was born in Lancaster on January 31, 1963 and was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School. He proudly served his country as a Marine for four years and was a veteran of the Gulf War. Jim is survived by his loving wife of nineteen years and best friend Kathleen Griffey (formerly Smith); his son and daughter-in law, Christopher and Traci Morris of Parkersburg, WV; and his beloved grandchildren, Kaelin, Cooper, and Owen Morris (who affectionately called him "Poppy"). He also leaves his father and mother-in-law, Glenn & Mary Ellen Smith of Harrisburg; his sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Gary Erb of Conestoga; his sister, Kathleen Harrison of Lancaster; a niece, two nephews, a large extended family, and numerous close friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen (Hennessy) Griffey. Jim was employed by the United States Postal Service in Harrisburg where he also formerly served for seven years as shop steward for the Mailhandlers Union Local 308. He was a lifelong volunteer fireman and was most recently an active member of the Paxtang Fire Company where he served as a trustee. Formerly he served as a member of the Eden and Paxtonia Fire Companies, was a life member of Progress Fire Company, and a member of the Dauphin County Fireman's Association. Additionally, Jim was a life member of VFW Post 1718, a member of Disabled American Veterans, and American Legion Post 730 in Penbrook. He was currently attending Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church of Fishing Creek. Jim was a stand-up guy with a kind and generous heart who touched the lives of all who knew him. He enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, camping, relaxing by the pool, and trips to the beach. He could always be found on Sunday afternoons donning his #58 jersey and faithfully cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Jim was also an avid Notre Dame football fan. Though his greatest joy was time spent with his family (especially playing with his grandchildren). Jim will be forever missed. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 6th at 11:00AM at Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA, with Rev. Dr. Gordon Lewis officiating. Military internment will follow at the Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetary. A viewing will be held on Tuesday evening from 6:00-9:00 PM at the funeral home. Arrangements are being handled by Neill Funeral Home, Paxtang. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church, 1629 Fishing Creek Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112 or Paxtang Fire Company, 3423 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111.