1969
2014
Those who dance are considered insane by those who cannot hear the music. Jim Griffin not only danced, he played the music itself. His music book was widespread: rock star, father, devoted husband, loyal friend; truly, he was a north star for anyone who found themselves lucky enough to be in his presence.
You could meet Jim once and be his friend for life. His warmth and infectious smile were like water in the desert. There was no escaping his pure genuineness. You could call him 'old school,' because he was a man of his word. His social life and business life were defined by a simple precept: give more than I receive. In his words, "I do for people because I want to, not because I expect anything." Though he had no idea, he touched countless lives.
Jim raised four children, as precocious as they are beautiful. Being in a room with Jim and his children was like watching comedy central: non-stop laughs. He was a long-haired rocker, and pushed his kids to follow their dreams. Lance (25) worked as an actor, and his Dad never missed a show. When Jim started playing music again, Lance never missed his shows. Jim's respect for the man Lance had become- strong, kind, and gentle spirited- was unrivaled. Resident comedian Hope (23) has a laugh that's larger than life, and she shared her Dad's sense of humor. In fact, he once caught her with a live kitten in her backpack ready to take to show and tell. Her fierce independence and self-reliance always made Jim beam with pride. Bella (15) became interested in softball, and Dad coached the team. Her fiery spirit and strong will persuaded Jim every morning to carry her to school rather than catching the 'lame' bus. His girls had him wrapped around their finger. Jim's favorite part of the day was driving his son Storm (10) to school every morning, and they made a special hand signal together to get pumped for the day. They would sit for hours together watching the History Channel, sharing a profound love for learning. Jim's bond with his children was one that will never be broken.
Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Jim was his relationship with his wife Karen. They dropped jaws when they walked into a room together. Some people say that time causes love to fade; the love between Jim and Karen was unbreakable. They were best friends, business partners, true soul mates. Their relationship was like a Nicholas Sparks novel: it's what movies are made of.
Jim was a mere 45 years of age upon his passing, but he lived the lives of ten men in that time. Though his songbird voice will nevermore grace an audience, it echoes on in the hearts of countless loved ones. He was a man who left a profound legacy on this Earth, and someone we can all aspire to be.
Friends and family are invited to join us in celebrating the life of Jim Griffin on Sunday, June 8th at 3 p.m. at El Charro Mexican Restaurant, 916 Florida Avenue, Cocoa, Florida 32922
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to benefit the needs of the Griffin family at any Florida Bank of Commerce branch or any Chase Bank branch. Please ask for your donation to be deposited into the account for the Griffin family. Donations can also be mailed to Zies Widerman & Malek for the benefit of The Griffin Family at 1990 West New Haven Ave. Suite 201, Melbourne, FL 32904.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
June 13, 2014
Brad
We Love and miss ya bruda. Thanks for making such a positive impact on my life. Praying for comfort and peace for the family. bRad
June 9, 2014
Heartbroken for all of the Griffin family. Jim was a shining star here on earth, and now in Heaven. I will never forget him.
Helen Rundle
June 9, 2014
Kay & Forrest
So many wonderful memories of your time together will keep him alive in your hearts. Jims life was well lived. His beautiful smile will be missed. Our hearts go out to you Karen, Lance, Hope, Bella, and Storm. And too all that knew him. Love, ((HUGS)) and prayers forever!
June 9, 2014
Tina and Steve Leighty
Our thoughts, prayers, and hugs go out to Jim's family and friends. He was rich with love.
June 8, 2014
Dan
Peace my brother. Catch ya on the other side.
June 8, 2014
Dan
Peace my brother. Catch ya on the other side.
June 8, 2014
Tony McFarland
Jim we will miss you. Thanks and love out to the family from Tony, Julie, & Vivian.
June 8, 2014
Larry Brock
Jim will be truly missed, he wasn't a contractor that I just worked for, he was a contractor I enjoyed working for. I am sorry for the loss to Karen and the family. Jim was a great man.
June 7, 2014
John, Jill and Dani Casey
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
June 7, 2014
Hiatt Family
Ms. Karen and family,
We are in shock of hearing your loss. Our prayers go out to you and the kids. This isn't the end but just the beginning of eternal life.
June 6, 2014
Lisa Meadows Ellis
Karen , my name is Lisa Meadows Ellis, we grew up with Jimbo and hisbrother and sister, we went to church together and we also grew up with your dad and Aunt Jane. I am so very sorry for your loss
My prayers are with you and your children and your entire family. May God Bless you all.
June 6, 2014
Dana Henson
Karen it is Dana Henson, I love you and I am so sorry ....if you ever need anything pls just reach out to me.... I wish I could be there and say good bye but I can't so I am sending good vibes, positive energy and lots of love ...so so sorry !!!! Be strong ! ~~~ So long Jimbo I am grateful and glad you graced my life !!! ...Dana Henson and family.
June 6, 2014
karen . this is the hornback familie from Aberdeen ohio ,condolences and prayers for you, and youre familie Ingrid ,bill and billy joe.! billy cant make it, but he is there, saying goodbye to his buddy, and pal.
June 6, 2014
Cheri Lazo
I will never forget you 'Jimbo', your heart was as big as all outdoors. I was so fortunate to have had you become my friend back in 1991. Music was your love and your talent immense. I am so glad that you found such happiness with my cousin Karen Culp. The two of you together made your life complete. You were taken from us far too soon. Karen, my heart breaks for you. He will always be watching over you and the kids. He left a wonderful imprint on everyone he met. You will be missed, Rock On!
June 5, 2014
Michael Noel
Im so sorry Karen jim was a great guy everytime i seen him he was allways smiling, he will be missed dearly??
June 5, 2014
Hi Karen and family,, this is Gary Joe Orme your dads cousin from Maysville.
Just wanted to express our sorrow in the loss of your husband.
Keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Joe & Ann
June 5, 2014
Karen, I am Jeff's sister, Laura. Jimbo was like a brother to Jeff and a good friend to our son, Josh, who considered him "an uncle!" There are not enough words to describe what an awesome man Jimbo was. His smile warmed anyone he came in contact with and he was always fondly remembered! I pray for you and your family and his multitude of friends that you will find comfort in his legacy of love, kindness and dedication to family, friends,and,especially, his music. Laura Reaves ( Manchester, Ohio)
June 5, 2014
Maxine Alfieri
Wonderful man will be missed. Prayers, love and hugs to Karen and the children.
June 5, 2014
Donnice Siegel
Karen, thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Jim will be missed by a lot of people. So sorry for you loss.
June 5, 2014
KAREN,
I WISH I COULD BE PRESENT AT THE MEMORIAL SERVICE.
I KNOW THAT AS YOU CELEBRATE HIS LIFE; IT WILL BE A TRIBUTE, THAT WILL TRULY MEMORIALIZE JIMBO TO THE HIGHEST OF HEIGHTS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.
JERRY- MAYSVILLE
June 5, 2014
Scott Boggs
The world was a better place with him in it. He will be missed. Always a genuine smile and a man who you liked immediately.
June 5, 2014
Steven Moore
Prayers to jimbos family and friends, Jim was a one of kind that's for sure! I hadn't seen him in years but I'm sure he was the same old jimbo. I was honored to have called him my friend.
June 4, 2014
Robbie Shepherd
Had a lot of good times with Jimbo and his band at Grumpy's Gravel Pit. He was also a very good friend who will be greatly missed. So sorry for your loss Karen and family.
June 4, 2014
Our hearts go out to you Karen and your entire family. We are shocked at your loss and hope that you can find comfort in the memories you share. If you need anything, anything at all, please call us.
The Bilby Family
June 4, 2014
Melissa Money-Irish
Karen I am thinking of you and the kids and sending hugs and prayers.
June 4, 2014
Lisa Thompson
Jimbo was a beautiful person, both inside and out. He had that big famous smile and was such a comedian making everybody around him smile. I believe he was the happiest person I've ever known. And, we all know what a great rockstar he was! If there was an audience, Jimbo would surely entertain them. To his children and wife: I'm very sorry for your great loss. You must be heartbroken and missing him terribly.
June 4, 2014
Denise Morelli
With much sadness I send my deepest sympathy to Karen, your children, family's and everyone who has met and instantly loved Jim like I did. He was a beacon of life and demonstrated true passion for it. I will miss being present at your shows and feeling that passion while rockin' out. Keep Rockin' in Paradise.
June 4, 2014
Jack & Sharon Boone
So very sorry about the untimely death of Jimbo. Jack and I send our thoughts and prayers to you Karen and the kids. Jimbo was a good friend to Jack and we will miss him dearly. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to call either of us.
June 4, 2014
William Darnell
Knowing Jimbo. He is stealing the show in heaven. Prayers to the family.
June 4, 2014
Kelly Ayres
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 4, 2014
Patrick & Kari McMichael
Beautiful words... Our Heart, Thoughts and Prayers go out to the entire Griffin Family. Jim was a Great Man, Husband and Father. He also had a Great Voice and Commanded a Stage like no other. We will miss you, my friend... yet we will think of you everyday and have a smile knowing that we were lucky enough to have you in our life. This is not Goodbye... Only Farewell for Now
June 4, 2014
Debbie Petrocine
My prayers are with his family now. Jim is singing in my heart forever.
June 4, 2014
Dean Dettore
You will be dearly missed Jim. I will NEVER forget you and we will see each other again. Condolences to the Griffin family. God Bless
June 4, 2014
Charles Knight
Jim was a truly kind soul. We never heard him utter a negative thing about anybody and his smile was always genuine and warm. We talked on many occasions and I enjoyed it immensely. He will be missed by everyone that knew him and even many that didn't. Our sincere condolences go out to Karen and his children. Rest in peace my friend.
June 4, 2014
Michael Sapp
so sorry for your loss; I am truly at a loss for words.
June 4, 2014
Rick and Dana Wahlberg
Dear Karen and Griffin Family~
Rick and I are deeply saddened to have learned of Jim's sudden and untimely passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time in your lives.
Although distance prevented us from spending a lot of time with you, we cherish the memories of special times we had the opportunity to be in your company during our Florida visits.
Jim was indeed a very special person - first and foremost, a beloved husband and father, in addition to being a true and loyal friend, as well as a talented carpenter and gifted musician. His infectious personality, genuinely kind spirit, and his legacy filled with integrity will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
With sincere sympathy,
June 4, 2014
Rusty and Rhino Earl
The entire Griffin family is in our thoughts and prayers, Jim was a unique and wonderful individual, he will be greatly missed.
June 4, 2014
Cheryl Waggoner
What a perfect tribute for Jimbo. He will be missed greatly. His smile was so infectious and his legacy will carry on through his beautiful children. Our love and prayers to the family. He will be forever in our hearts.
Robert and Cheryl Waggoner
Maysville, Ky
June 4, 2014
Tonda Roth
To the entire Griffin Family:
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
June 4, 2014
Bruce & Tree VanDeGriek & Gallagher
Condolences to you & your family.. His light will always shine through those who knew him and remember
June 4, 2014
Regina Robb
Our deepest sympathies to your family. Jim was a stand up guy. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Regina & Jerry Robb
June 4, 2014
Andy Casey
June 4, 2014
Byron Evetts
Our hearts are broken to hear of Jim's passing. He truly was "old school", a man of his words and a true gentleman. It always was a pleasure to see him around town or at a school event with Karen and the kids. It reminded me to be a better Father and Husband. Although he is gone, his smile lives with us forever.
Byron & Ruth Evetts and all of us at Existing Structures
June 4, 2014
June Barton
Karen, you may not remember me, but we met at Wheel of Fortune try outs. I am so sorry for your loss. You two were so vital. Please know I have you and your family in my prayers. If there is any thing I can help you with, please let me know. I'll be 88 in July, so if you need an older shoulder to llean on, I'll be there for you. My ph. # is 456-5765.
June 4, 2014
Gene&fran Bolton
Just felt the need to say ,looks like time to start the music in Heaven Jim is ready to get some Rock and Roll started..He lived his life to the fullest ! RIP
June 4, 2014
Jasper & Connie Burgin
We are so very sorry for your loss Karen. Prayers for you and your family.
June 4, 2014
Myra Dryden
Jim was an inspiration always. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and loved ones.
Myra Dryden (Cincinnati, OH)
June 4, 2014
Jerry & Jeannette Fleming
Carolyn & Junior . . . Please accept our deepest sympathies. You and your entire family are certainly in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide the comfort needed in the days ahead.
June 4, 2014
Catherine Mackish
God bless him and his family... He will be sorely missed!!!
June 4, 2014
Omar and Kim Torres
Our Deepest condolences to the Griffin family. Thoughts and prayers are with your family.
June 4, 2014
Jim Francher
Jim was a great guy, friend, and business associate for many years. He will be deeply missed. Please let me know if there is anything I can do, Karen, to help in this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
June 4, 2014
Bryn Yemm
I have lost a friend and a brother, Jim was a good human being, will never forget the good times spent in his company..deepest condolences to karen and family
From Wales UK. The Bryn yemm family..
June 4, 2014
Angie Risola Roberts
So sorry for your loss. Love and hugs to your family from ours.
June 3, 2014
Tim Dever
worked with Jim years ago. Great guy!!!!!!!
June 3, 2014
Monica Kidd
June 3, 2014
Michele Wood
I'm so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. Sending my sincerest condolences to Karen and the kids and all of Jim's family and friends.
June 3, 2014
Brandy Schultz
So very sorry for the loss of such a wonderful man! My heart goes out to his family. To know him was to love him and I so admired the relationship and dynamics that he and his wife shared. Rock on with that angel's choir!
June 3, 2014
Kim and brian
Karen!, from the few times we have been around Jim you could tell he was a kind and genuine man. He will be missed and always remembered. God bless.
June 3, 2014
Kim Williams
Jim was an amazing person with a heart of Gold. It was an honor to know him. I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
June 3, 2014
Amy Hamrick
What a joy it was to know Jim and see what someone who loved and lived life to the fullest can do. He followed his dream in music and that smile and sparkle in his eyes always lit up a room! Im so sorry for your loss, but I know we have a wonderful angel watching over us and nudging us to go for whatever makes us all happy!
June 3, 2014
Tonia Jones
So very sorry for your loss. Many prayers sent.
June 3, 2014
Amy Perkins
So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. Especially Carolyn and junior . Love ya Amy
June 3, 2014
Chasity Ezell
Carolyn, it sounds like you raised a good man. I am extremely touched reading about your Jimbo. I love you dearly and I am so sorry about your family's great loss.
June 3, 2014
andrew
Jim will be greatly missed,he was a friend to all..no matter if they knew him or not..
June 3, 2014
Kathy Phillips
Junior, Carolyn & Family: You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God comfort all of you. Larry & Kathy Phillips, Maysville, Ky
June 3, 2014
Melissa Alrdani
Jim always seemed to be enjoying life to the fullest. We can all probably learn from that. Thoughts and prayers for his family and all who loved him.
June 3, 2014
Tom Farrell
So sorry for the loss of a Great Man, Thoughts and Prayers are with you Karen and the children, He will always be remembered as the Best !!!
June 3, 2014
Sutton Kellam
Jim, your light will burn eternal in our lives. I will always carry the joy and honor of being your friend. Love you with all my heart
June 3, 2014
Chrisitne Demas
I have never had a worse shock in my life then this. In the short time I knew Jim, Karen and the kids from being one of my very favorite and special store customers...I fell in Love with them all! Jim came to my little rock n roll store first and from the moment I met him I knew we were going to be friends a long time. He spoke of Karen with the deepest of Love and Pride and was so excited to bring her in to meet me and my sister Maria! Then came the kids too!!!! In those many visits, texts, phone calls and messages my sister and I grew to know them better. The words that always came to mind were Kindness, Sweet, Real and Genuine, Heart Felt, Loving, Patient, Clam and one of the Most Beautiful Inside and Out human beings I have ever ever met! That Smile Lit up a Room and Your Heart!!! You just wanted to hang out with Jim...you loved having him just Be There. I still am shaking my head in disbelief and will be for a very long time......not understanding Why? Not understanding how an Angel of a Man can be taken from his Family and the World.....not fair. I will horribly horribly Miss His Visits to the store and the Fun Fun we had, the Laughing and Silliness we all had with Karen and the kids! And that Electric Smile that just brightened everyone's day! We had the Best Times!!! The Best. I will have a very difficult time getting passed the fact that we will never see him again....not fair....how could one with such a beautiful family and kindest biggest heart being taken from us all. God must have really really needed an Angel. We will All miss you so so much Jim. You will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. xoxo Rock On! in Heaven
June 3, 2014
nancie risola
We cannot feel life's losses without first feeling the blessings of its fullness. I know that Jim lead a full life balancing his love for family, music, and work. He and Karen always opened their home to my brothers and treated us like family. Jims love was as big as his smile. I love you, my brother, & to say I miss you just isn't enough. We can take comfort in that those who love will be reunited in eternity. R.I.P. Jim. Save me a place in the front row.
June 3, 2014
Donnie Gallagher
So sorry for the loss of a great man. Jimbo we will never forget you. Prayers for family.
June 3, 2014
Jeff
Didn't know you Jim... But I know a lot of people that loved you. Rest peacefully... Pray for those left behind
June 3, 2014
Donnie Gallagher
So sorry for the loss of a great man. Jimbo we will never forget you. Prayers for family.
June 3, 2014
Gina Schifano
Thoughts and prayers are with you Karen and kids. Stay strong.
June 3, 2014
Tricia Woods
Rockstar Jim will be missed by the Woods family. Glad that we have so many great memories and good times spent together. From seeing him sing at numerous gigs, to my belly piercing on the gynecological table, to waving every morning as we dropped our kids off at school and to the good ole..." just stopped by for 1 " nights. Even jake said he makes the best breakfast! Of course my love to Karen and the kids who I will continue to support and pray for! Love you all...RIP Jim Griffin
June 3, 2014
Wayne Sherwood
Although I wasn't an actual close friend of Jim's...I did, on many occasion, watch him sing and grace the stage floor of many a local venue. His vocal intenseness is what drew my presence to the bands GS Teaser, and No Safe Word. I will miss this man, as I was expecting him to continue shining for many years to come. It saddens me that he is no longer with us. Rest in Peace, serve The Lord.
June 3, 2014
Joyce Cook
Peace and healing prayers to you Karen and the children. My heart aches for all of you...All my love, Joyce
June 3, 2014
Mark Malek
Sure will miss you Jimbo. You were always an inspiration to me to be a better husband and father. I will cherish the short time that I knew you. Until we meet again my friend...
June 3, 2014
JoAnn Hilderbrand
Sorry for such a great loss prayers to all
June 3, 2014
Diona Washington
It was with great shock and sadness to hear the news of my classmate. My deepest condolences and sympathy to the Family of Jimbo Griffin. May he rest now in Peace.
June 3, 2014
Adrina Black- Shepherd
I went to school and graduated with Jimbo he was an Awesome Human being with a Smile that could light up a room. Heaven has a new Angel and he is lighting up Heaven with that Radiant Smile. So Sorry for your loss, My Prayers and Thoughts are with your family. May God Bless you all.
June 3, 2014
Trenton Livers
My condolences and prayers go out to the family. R.I.P Jimbo..
June 3, 2014
Jeff Moran
Terribly sorry for your loss. We are never ready to lose them. My condolences to all of the family.
June 3, 2014
Cherie Poikus
I cannot express the shock and sadness felt when hearing about the untimely death of Jimbo. He was a great friend to many throughout his lifetime. I remember him always smiling and laughing. Everyone that knew him cared for him. I cannot think of one person that did not like him. He was such a good natured person. My condolences and prayers go out to his family, Karen and his children. I cannot imagine your grief and you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
June 3, 2014
Sonia Jones
My hearts aches for Jimbo's family. I am so sorry for your tragic loss. What a wonderful Angel Heaven has gained.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
June 3, 2014
Brenda Presley Padgett
My thoughts and prayers are with your family as I remember a Much younger Jimbo. The little blonde haired boy with the big smile as he played pranks and laughed while the whole bunch of us played on Chester Street.
June 3, 2014
Kymberly Fox
James "Jim" Can never forget your smile, Im so sorry Karen & Family for your loss he was one in a million. God needed a another band member in Heaven.
June 3, 2014
Jay Jones
So sorry for your loss, I remember spending a lot of time with the family as we played baseball together for quite a few years.I will aleays remember that big smile of Jimbo's. May God bless and comfort you all.
Jay Jones
June 3, 2014
Sorry for your loss Billy Curtis
June 3, 2014
chriss gifford
Karen I'm sorry there was never a Man quite like him at a very good talent and the love and respect that you two had for each other was unreal..he was a good man R.I.P. Jim Griffin
June 3, 2014
Kaye High
Carolyn and Jr. I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts to your family.
June 3, 2014
Marty PURDON
June 3, 2014
Cindi Baris
Karen and family, I am so very sorry for your tremendous loss. I pray that your hearts heal through the wonderful memories of Jim and your times together. He was an amazing person, friend, father, husband, musician and businessman. It was an honor to call him friend and I will miss his infectious smile.
June 3, 2014
Kim Elliott-Shannon
As a child, I spent a lot of time at my grandmother's house on Chester St. Had many fun days playing with Jimbo and the other kids on the street. So sorry for your loss!
June 3, 2014
Ernie Brock
So sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers.
June 3, 2014
elizabeth bolden
I am so sorry for your loss.god bless you and your family.
June 3, 2014
Aileen Fite-Kimbler
I just want to say how truly sorry I am to hear of your loss of Jimbo. I went to school with him, and was in the graduating class of Maysville High class of 87 with him . A lot of great Senior memories of Jimbo, he was truly a great person to have known. Again I am so sorry for your loss.
June 2, 2014
Bette Sledd
Carolyn & Jr. So sorry to hear about Jimbo. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sympathy to Karen also.
Bette & Buddy Sledd
June 2, 2014
Brenda Hester
June 2, 2014
Brenda Hester
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