We are saddened to report that Richard Lloyd Griffin, age 71, passed away on May 26, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
One of the highlights of Richard’s life was achieving his dream of owning one of “the greatest cars ever made,” a blue Citröen DS that he bought from Mark Bardenwerper in Wisconsin and took great care of. Richard took great pleasure in giving friends and family an opportunity to experience his classy car that “floated” on hydraulic suspension.
Born on October 6, 1953, Richard lived his mantra, “A man takes care of his family.” His kindness and courteousness extended to his friends, his neighbors, his co-workers, his customers, and beyond. We who were gifted with his presence in our lives are grateful for his love, sacrifices, and steadfastness, as well as his offbeat sense of humor.
After serving eight years in the United States Army, Richard enjoyed a 40-year career in numerous capacities in the printing industry. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Operations Management at UNC Charlotte after receiving his associate’s degree from Central Piedmont Community College. He was proud of his time working at CPCC, first as Director of Campus Printing and head of their publishing arm, and later as a graphic arts teacher. He was known at CPCC, and everywhere, for his ready smile, his friendliness, and his commitment to serving others.
Richard was valiant, courageous, and cheerful throughout all the challenges he faced in life, including the devastating effects of the Multiple System Atrophy that took his life. He relished his time with his family, his friends, and his caregivers. It was a joy for us to be with him at home right through to the end. We are so thankful for the support of VIA Health Partners | Hospice & Palliative Care for making this possible.
He is survived by his wife, Maureen Ryan Griffin, their children, Matthew Richard Griffin, Brynn Maria Logan, Amanda Leigh Kirkman (husband Ross Coble Kirkman), and Daniel Lloyd Griffin (wife Allison Barfield Griffin); their grandchildren, Lily Anne Griffin, Yvonne Maria Gonzalez (husband Peter Michael Gonzalez), Elassante (Dae) Cruz Logan, Sierra Tyesha Marsh, Rhys Addison Kirkman, Harrison Richard Kirkman, Eleanor Ross Kirkman, and Adelaide Ryan Griffin; their great-grandson, Amor King Lofton; his sisters, Jan Louise Sweeney (husband Matthew Sweeney), Joan Gayle Griffin, and Jamie Robinson Groover, and numerous members of his extended family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joan Vogel Griffin; his father, William Lloyd Griffin; and his brother, William Ronald Griffin.
A memorial service to celebrate Richard’s life was held at Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, 300 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Matthews, NC 28105 on Friday, June 6th.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Red Cross (https://www.redcross.org/), Charlotte Family Housing (https://charlottefamilyhousing.org/), or SOS Children’s Villages USA, Inc. (https://www.sos-usa.org/).
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.gordonfuneralservice.com.