Ira Earl Griffith, Jr.

Ira Earl Griffith, Jr., age 84, of Bristol, Va., passed away on Friday, February 26, 2016, at Bristol Regional Medical Center. Having served in United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, Ira was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. He was a reservist in the National Guard for 11 years and was employed as a welder at Black Diamond in Bristol for several years. Following his retirement, Ira continued to serve his country as a member of the Highlands Veterans Honor Guard.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Margaret Henderson Griffith; three sons, Joel, Nick, and Tim Griffith; three daughters, Donna Mabe, Dee Gamble, and Kathy Norris; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, 2016, at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, 2016, at the Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City with Pastor Roger Phelps officiating. Pallbearers will be Joel, Nick, and Tim Griffith, Kenny Gamble, Tyler Hinchey, and G.C. Brown. Military honors will be provided by the Highlands Veterans Honor Guard and the United States Marine Corps.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home.

Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guestbook.

The family of Ira Earl Griffith, Jr. is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, Va. 24210 (276-623-2700).