Harold Eugene Griffith

After a long illness, Harold Eugene Griffith, 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 7, at his home in Watkinsville. He was preceded in death by parents Raymond and Mildred Heath Griffith. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Olean Wheeler Griffith, sons Harry and Steve Griffith (fiancé Ashley Kay), sister Jane Jones, and several nieces and nephews.

Harold graduated from Winterville High School in 1952. He received an athletic scholarship from North Georgia Technical School in Clarkesville, GA, where he lettered in baseball and basketball. He met his future wife and best friend in 1953, and they were married in November 1956.

Harold joined the U.S. Air Force in 1957 and served 4 years in Omaha, Nebraska at the headquarters of the Strategic Air Command. While in Omaha, he attended Omaha University and became interested in business. After being honorably discharged from the Air Force and returning to Georgia, he was an insurance and real estate agent and later started his own construction company, which he operated until retirement.

Visitation will be Wednesday, August 10, from 6-8 p.m. and services on Thursday, August 11, at 1 p.m. at Lord and Stephens West. Burial to follow at Evergreen Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Lord & Stephens West is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com