SGM Bobby Merle Griffis, Sr., 68

Townsend: SGM Bobby Merle Griffis, Sr., 68, of Townsend, died unexpectedly on March 3, 2017, in the U.F. Shands Medical Center in Gainesville, Florida.

Mr. Griffis was born in Homerville, Georgia, December 3, 1948, a son of William F. and Melva V. (Delk) Griffis and resided in Pepperell before moving to Townsend 30 years ago.

He was a Vietnam veteran, serving as a Sergeant in the United States Army. Following his discharge from active duty he joined the reserves retiring at the rank of Sergeant Major stationed at Ft Devens, Ayer, MA. While in the reserves he participated in reconstruction of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.  He was the recipient of the Purple Heart Medal.

Following his retirement from the armed forces he continued his service and was still working at Devens as a contract officer and Engineering Technician at the Reserve Forces Training Area.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, wildlife and nature, as well as Woodworking/Building.

Mr. Griffis leaves his wife of 42 years, Gloria J. (O’Bea) Griffis; two sons and daughters in law, Bobby Jr. and Audrey Griffis of New Ipswich, NH, Keith D. and Amy Griffis of Hudson; a sister, Evelyn Carter of Alma, Georgia; four brothers, Willie Fred Griffis and Stanley Griffis both of Homerville, GA, Ray Connors and Donald Connors both of Sylvania, GA; five grandchildren, Corinne, Donovan,  Samuel, Grace, and Evelyn. A close family friend who was like a son David B. and Jennifer Langton of Townsend and their daughter Abigail. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.

He was the brother of the late Billy Franklin Griffis, Ted Wayne Griffis, and George Edward “Eddie” Griffis.

A wake will be held on Friday March 17, 2017 from 4-7pm at Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Rd, Ayer, Ma.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Saturday March 18, 2017 at 10am at the Ft. Devens Cemetery, 35 Patton Road, Devens, MA with a reception at the Hilton Garden Inn 59 Andrews Pkwy, Devens, MA immediately to follow. All welcome.

A memorial site is available to share photos, stories, and memories at www.BobbyMGriffisSr.com

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to The Morningstar Children & Family Services (formerly Boy’s Estate where Bobby was raised) by visiting http://Donate.BobbyMGriffisSr.com