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William Maurice Griffin, Jr.


Sunrise: April 9, 1940

Sunset: November 16, 2020

William Maurice Griffin Jr. affectionately known as “ Bruh”, “Ball” or “Uncle Sonny” transitioned from labor to reward on Monday, November 16, 2020. William was born on April 9, 1940 to the late William M. Griffin, Sr. and Annie O. Griffin in Stafford, Va. He was one of nine children. He was educated in the Fredericksburg Public School system and was a proud graduate of Walker Grant High School in 1959.

William worked as a computer specialist at the Norfolk Naval Base until his retirement after 30+ years of service. He was a hard worker of 2 jobs to provide for his family. On March 30th, 1973 he married the love of his life, Irene Hill Griffin. From this union two sons were born, Derrick and Steven. William was a nurturing father and loving husband.

His Passion
William was wised beyond his years when it came to politics and sports. He was a huge fan of all Washington teams. Redskins Football team, Wizards, Capitals and Nationals. His love for God showed from his passion in studying the word of God and his relationship with God. William loved to see his children, grandchildren, siblings, and family together in love, laughter,  Celebration and fellowship. He certainly loves to take a ride up 95 to his hometown in Fredericksburg.

His Service to God
As a child William attended Union Bell Baptist Church and Shiloh Baptist Church. As an adult he joined New Mount Olivet Baptist Church after moving to Portsmouth, VA and grew in the faith as he served faithfully as the chairman deacon. Sunday school teach, senior choir member, and male chorus member until God led him to First Baptist South Hill to serve before his health failed him.

His Service to Man
William attended Norfolk State University from 1960-1961 and soon after joined the United States Air Force in 1962. He served his country for 20 years as a telecommunications operations supervisor. While serving he attended and graduated from the Saint Leo University in 1988 a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

His Legacy
William was preceded in death by his loving wife, Irene Griffin, whom he took excellent care of until her death; his parents William Sr. and Annie O. Griffin; sisters Olivia Thompson and Maxine Williams. Williams leaves to cherish his memories to his two sons, Derrick Sr. (Likeshia), Steven Sr. (LaToya), five grandchildren Kavante, Armani, Kiera, Derrick Jr. and Steven ll, one great grandchild, Harmoni, four sisters, Annie Walker, Brenda (Thomas), Parker, Lucille McReynolds, Denise (Theodore) Jackson; two brothers, Herman (Virginia) Griffin, Sr. and Richard Griffin, Sr. and a host of relatives and friends.

Viewing Friday, November 20, 2020 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 120 W. Berkley Avenue Norfolk, VA 23523 Service WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Saturday, November 21, 2020 11:00am Metropolitan Funeral Service Berkley Chapel Interment Albert G. Horton Veteran Cemetery 5310 Milners Road Suffolk, VA 23434 The family is following the CDC and State of Virginia guidelines for funeral attendance

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Condolences(8)

  1. reply
    Deacon Audrey Prestonsoto - Shiloh Baptist Church New Site says

    To the family, my deepest condolences to you during your time of loss. May God keep you and strengthen you.

  2. reply
    Gloria Poole Stuart says

    My heart is saddened but rejoices in knowing that you are with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. My family extends condolences and prayers for your strenght during this difficult time.
    Gloria Poole and Family

  3. reply
    Kathleen Walker Pinckney says

    Condolences to my cousins, aunts and uncles and the extended family. My uncle had always been a man of integrity and faith. He has always been good to me. I know he is in a better place but I surely will miss him. I love you Uncle Sonny. SIP?

  4. reply
    Andre Wilkerson says

    Condolences to the entire Griffin family tree. We lost a great man, a veteran, and we know he is with our family members looking down on us. Love you uncle sonny my fellow aries…S.I.P.

  5. reply
    Kareema says

    To my dear Great Uncle, thank you for being a light to all of us and showing us the way.

  6. reply
    JoAnn D. Samuel says

    November 21, 2020
    Uncle Sonny, we will always love you and you will be missed. You are a GODLY MAN Uncle! I won’t forget the Moving PRAYERS ??? YOU ??? PRAYED on the PRAYER LINE. What I will miss more than anything Uncle Sonny is the way you talked about JESUS CHRIST and you ??? made sure that we knew and understood the way in which we too will get to HEAVEN!!! I Love You Uncle Sonny and give my Mother a Big Kiss For Me!

  7. reply
    R. Beale says

    My Sincere condolences to the entire Griffin family! You have my “Heartfelt” Sympathy and a shared grief in the passing of Bro. Maurice! Each time that I had met and spoken with Maurice Griffin, He always had something positive to say! Because He lived an “Honorable” life before men and GOD, I am sure that He left an indelible impact upon Family and Friends! Family, do whole on to those “Golden” memories !!! May GOD extend strength,
    comfort, and peace to each !! “Do all the Good that you can, while you can ! “We are only here for a “Moment”! GOD Bless !
    Respectfully,

    Robert. M. Beale, Ed. D.
    Is. 26:3

  8. reply
    Brenda Betts says

    My condolences goes out to the entire Griffin family and especially my friend, Richard. I pray that God will send a special blessing to each of you to help heal your broken hearts ?

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