James Allen McGriff Sr.

 
Mr. James Allen McGriff, Sr., was born December 30, 1954 to the late Waymon Callie Mae McGriff. James was the 2nd child of 6 children which one sister Joyce-Ann McGriff-Ford (preceded in him death). James accepted Christ at an early age and joined Antioch Baptist Church. He was a loyal and faithful member who also served as the trustee for many years. James attended Crosby School here in Antioch Church yard from 1959-1961. Philadelphia School 1962 – 1964, Columbia School 1965-1968. Then upon integration, he attended Cottonwood High School by which he graduated from 1969 – 1973. He was also an outstanding football player (#70). Upon graduation, James went to work at Hedstrom Union with our father for several years until it closed. James became the manager of his brother Curtis’ restaurant "Big Grip Burgers” in Malone, Fl. After the restaurant closed in 1986, James opened his own business called McGriff Construction, LLC. until his health failed in February 2018. James was a ‘Master’ of his craft and an absolute ‘perfectionist.’ If it was not done right, he would take it down and start over – until it met his idea. James was responsible for all of the remodeling and additions at Antioch Baptist church such as: the two classrooms, the inside pool, the stage, and the entire fellowship hall. His last additions are the new chandeliers hanging in Greater Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.  He was very well known throughout the community for his craftsmanship within the tri-state area.  Nothing was too much for James. No job was too big or too small – from the kitchen sink to the rooftop. A selfless heart who would work for next to nothing as his way of helping others out. James was such a humble, loving and caring man with the gentlest spirit and heart of gold. Proverbs 24a: A man who has friends shows himself friendly. James was that man. In simple words, James loved his family, loved his friends and never said a harsh word about anyone. James was an all-around good and faithful man and he will be truly missed by everyone who knew him.  At the age of 63 on June 11th 2018 at 2:50pm while surrounded by his family, James received his wings and the Heavens rejoiced and welcomed another angel – he would be a flower to the garden. 

He leaves for us to cherish: a devoted loving son James Allen McGriff, Jr.(Anika) of Gordon, Al; son Shaun Foster, Miami,Fl. Along with 4 grandchildren, Shayanne, Jacob, Keyanna & Bruce. As a daughter, Felita Nix, Webb, Al. Loving and devoted sister Carolyn McGriff-Jackson (George), Gordon, Al; brothers Charles McGriff (Pamela) Gordon, Al.; Curtis McGriff (wife) Maurie, Hackensack, NJ; Waymon McGriff Jr. (Cora) of Opelika, AL; nephews Reginald Williams, Sr. (Marilyn), Rehobeth, AL; Charles McGriff Jr (Rhonda) of Marianna, FL; Corey Henderson (Brandy), Birmingham, Al; Desmond Henderson (Angie), currently deployed, Romania;  Jonathan Ford (Brittany), Taylor, Al; nieces Kayla, Mia and Morgan. Great nephews and nieces: Shilonda, Chance, Christine, Joshua, Reginald Jr., Sa’Voric, Jordan, Charleston, Jaycee & Colandra. Two uncles Willie  Truett; Tellis Truitt and aunt Ella Mae McGriff. Special brothers: Larry Daniels, Carl Jackson, John Roach, Keith Smith, James Tigg, Jimmy Tigg; As sisters: Clora Tee Hicks and Reverend Millie Rambo. Special thanks to: Day Spring Hospice & Tonya Rodgers.

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