Ralph Edwin McGriff, 70, of Vero Beach, passed away on Aug. 11, 2016.
He is survived by and lovingly remembered by his children Rodney McGriff (Shutonna), Marlene “Mimi” McGriff, Rhondalyn McGriff, Christina Moore; grandchildren Shanda A. Forde-Judon (Michael), Jessica S. Morgan, Joshua C. Ealy, RaShawna E. Stuckey; great-grandchildren Jordan D. Smith, Kennedi C. McGriff-Fanning; his brothers, Lester McGriff, Ronald McGriff and Walter “Pee Wee” McGriff; his sisters, Justine Demons, Geneva Taylor, and Dilly McGriff; and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Willie McGriff, Sr. and Rosa Lee McGriff; his wife Nettie Benjamin McGriff; brothers Charles McGriff, Willie “Kinnerman” McGriff, Jr., Michael “Red” McGriff, Elijah McGriff, Kenneth “Kooky” McGriff; and sisters Juanita Golfe, Linda Richardson, Willidean “Billie” McGriff, and Rochelle McGriff.
McGriff was born in Gifford on Feb. 22, 1946, to Willie and Rosa Lee McGriff. He graduated from Gifford High School. In 1970 he was Honorably Discharged from the U.S. Army. He received the Marksman (Rifle) designation and the National Defense Service Medal.
He continued his education, graduating from Jones College. He was retired, having been an employee of Piper Aircraft Company for over 35 years.
On Aug. 11, 2016 at the VNA Hospice House Ralph transitioned in his journey and his life, on earth came to an end.
A visitation will be held from 10 to 12 p.m. on Aug. 20, at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 4545 30th Avenue, Gifford, FL 32967 with a funeral service to follow at 12.
Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home is handling arrangements.