James H Griffis

James H. Griffis, 91, of Worcester died peacefully on Wednesday August 17, 2022 at his home with his family by his side.  Jim was born in Denver, CO; he was the son of the late Thomas and Dorothy (Stevens) Griffis. 

Jim was the owner of Grafton Power Equipment and Taylor Rental for 25 years.  A longtime member of the Evangelical Congregational Church of Grafton, Jim will be fondly remembered as a member of the choir. He also he served the church as a trustee for many years. Jim enlisted in the Navy and possibly through that discovered his love of boating.  Over the years he had many boats that he would captain, taking family and friends on adventures. He was also a car enthusiast. He worked for Porsche, giving him the opportunity to drive many fine automobiles. His appreciation for foreign cars continued throughout his life. He was a life-long ‘jack-of-all-trades’ with extensive knowledge and recall, helping many a family member and friend with a range of projects. Later in life he also discovered a hobby in model plane building and flying. He was an active member with The Academy of Model Aeronautics. With a quick wit and a quick smile, he was generous with his time and his stories, often colorful tales from places he had lived, worked, and traveled both across the United States and overseas.

Jim was pre-deceased by his first wife, Jean, and two sons, Scott and Jay Griffis. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years Nancy M. (Kelley) Griffis, two sons, Chris Griffis, Stanley Griffis and his wife Janet, three daughters, Melanie Silva, Shawna Florio and her husband Raffaele, Brooke Mignogna and her husband Louis, and daughter in-law Sharon Griffis.  He also leaves cherished grandchildren Claire, Andrew, Ryan, Ben, Will, Kate, Barron, Owen, and Savella as well as great grandchildren Avery, Lillian, Theo, and Faye. Jim is also survived by his sister-in-law Lora Morris and many beloved nieces and nephews.    

Calling hours for Jim will be held on Wednesday August 24, 2022 from 4-7pm at the Mercadante Funeral Home and Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605. A Graveside service will be held on Thursday August 25, 2022 at 11am at the Riverside-Fairview Cemetery, 56 Millbury St., Grafton, MA 01519.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Jim’s memory to Why Me and Sherry’s House of Worcester, MA whyme.org/get-involved/donate/.

To leave a note of condolence for the family, please visit www.mercadantefuneral.com