Frederick ‘Fred’ M. Griffis

Mr. Frederick “Fred” M. Griffis passed from this life to eternal life Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020.

A native of Tampa, Fla., he served honorably in the Coast Guard from 1971 to 1975. He graduated from the University of South Florida and St. Petersburg College and practiced as a registered nurse until retirement.

He and Gail moved to Ellijay in 2016 to begin their retirement years. He loved his Lord Jesus and always strived to live in a way that honored his Lord. 

He was a music lover and played the guitar and sang. As a member of First Baptist Church, he sang in the choir. He also pursued a hobby he loved — horseback riding. 

He loved the “small-town life” in Ellijay and made many friends here.

He is survived by wife, Gail; mother, Marcia; brother, Glenn (Julie); sisters-in-law, Teresa Safron (Curtis), Kathy McClendon, Joellen McClendon; many nieces and nephews; and “chosen family” Sharon Berry.

A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2020, at First Baptist Church in Ellijay, with Minister Scott Eaton officiating. 

A graveside service was held at 2 p.m. Dec. 2, 2020, in the North Georgia National Cemetery with honors by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Memorial donations can be made to Gideons International, Homeward Bound Pet Rescue Inc. or a charity of your choice in memory of Mr. Griffis.

Condolences can be made at www.bernhardtfh.com.

Bernhardt Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.