David Cowles Griffin

David Cowles Griffin, 92, of Williamsburg, VA, formerly of Hollywood, MD, died at home October 19, 2017. He was born in Simsbury, CT, April 17, 1925 to Margaret and Walter Griffin. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Novella (Harsh); their 5 children, Tammy Berryhill, David Griffin (Debra), Rebecca Butler (Charles), James Griffin (Donna) and Joelle Griffin Russell (Penn); and 6 grandchildren, Timothy Berryhill, Julianna Butler, Christopher Butler, Benjamin Butler, Dulcinea Russell, and Amelia Russell.

Dave enlisted in the Navy at 18 during World War II. He was sent to radio school at Texas A&M and then stationed as a radio operator in the South Pacific. At the end of the war, he returned home to attend the University of Connecticut then moved to Washington DC and graduated from Capital Radio Engineering College. He began his Civil Service career at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in St. Mary’s County, MD, where he met his wife. They raised their family in Town Creek and later Hollywood, MD. He worked at PAX for the Flight Test Division and later the Test Directorate until he retired from Civil Service after 30 years. He found great satisfaction in making a contribution to the forefront of naval aviation.

After a short retirement, Dave returned to PAX, working with Dyncorp/CSC. He was happy to be back in a hangar, working with airplanes again. He continued with Dyncorp for 23 years until he retired again at 79. Throughout his time in St. Mary’s County, he was active in the Hollywood United Methodist Church, where he held leadership positions for many years. During his 70’s, Dave was able to achieve his dream of becoming a pilot. His solo flights around the area in a Cessna were some of his proudest moments.

Dave moved to Williamsburg in 2004, where he and Novella have enjoyed retirement close to their youngest grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Ste 300, Jacksonville, FL (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). Services are private.

Online condolences for the family may be made at www.nelsencares.com.