Danny Ray Griffith

On February 23, 2025, Danny Ray Griffith of Jacksonville, Florida passed away peacefully at home at the age of 84 years.

Danny was born on October 6, 1940 in Byesville, Ohio, the 9th of 17 children to William and Florence Griffith. Upon graduating from Conesville High School he was given the choice to work with his father in the coal mine or join the military. He joined the U.S. Navy at 17. He married his childhood sweetheart, Betsy Rhinehart, in 1959, and they welcomed three daughters. He retired from the Navy in 1980 after 22 years serving his country and later worked for the U.S. Navy as a civilian employee before retiring a second time. 

Danny was a proud member of Orange Park Masonic Lodge 267 and became Grand Master of Florida in 2013. Danny and Betsy enjoyed traveling throughout the state attending Masonic events and making many wonderful friends, some calling themselves “Danny’s Boys.”

Danny loved playing golf, watching football (Jaguar inaugural 20+ year season ticket holder) and NASCAR. He took pride in maintaining a pristine home and yard. He was also very adept at fixing most things, as his daughters can attest to.

Danny will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betsy Griffith; daughters: Susan (Kent) Whalen, Kathleen Griffith and Lori (Dale) Averitt; grandchildren: Michael Whalen, Meagan Whalen, Lindsey (Austin) Pleasants and Jamie (Jayten) Hurckes; brothers Buddy (Betty) Barr, Terry (Pam) Griffith, Phil (Sharon) Griffith, George (Suzie) Griffith, Timothy (Peggy) Griffith; sister Brenda Copley and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral will be held on Saturday, March 15 with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00 a,m. in the Broadus-Raines Chapel, 501 Spring Street, Green Cove Springs, Florida 32043, followed by interment on Monday, March 17 at 9:00 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, Florida, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers donations are welcome to the Masonic Home of Florida https://masonichomefl.com/donate/