Ernest “Al” Griffin
ERNEST GRIFFIN
Ernest “Al” Griffin, born October 4, 1938 in Avon Park, Fla., passed away on August 25, 2016, in Palmetto, Fla.
Al was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend who always put the comfort and well-being of others before himself. His humor was unrivaled, and his wisdom ran deep. Rarely speaking an ill word of anyone or anything, Al’s positive outlook on life was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Al was an avid runner in this area and member of the Bradenton Runners Club. He placed in many local marathons and races. Many don’t realize it, but you have likely seen Al walking, land skiing, biking and kayaking in West Palmetto. Al was also a local celebrity at PJ’s Sandwich Shop in Parrish, Fla. for 22 years, which he owned and operated with his soul mate, Patricia.
Prior to running PJ’s, Al worked 20 years for Winn Dixie, managing the produce department; then ran his own produce stand in Ellenton, Fla. for 10 years.
An enthusiastic and self-taught musician, Al loved to play guitar, ukulele, harmonica, bongos and much more, even making personal CDs for his family and friends. Al loved everyone and enjoyed doing little things to make them happy.
Al is survived by his beloved Patricia “Pat” O’Connor; siblings: Naomi Pingly, Mary Elizabeth (Eurston) Rollins, Ruth Robinson, James Griffin, Lydia (Sam) DeGeorge; children: Wanda (Brent) Lanham, Alvin (Pam) Griffin, Hope Goodwin, Ernie Griffin, Kenny Griffin, Christina (Will) Acevedo, Perry (Pam) O’Connor, Teresa (Joe) Giles, Kevin (Shary) O’Connor, Chris (Christy) O’Connor, Nadine (Lance) Cuyler; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Al is preceded in death by his parents and brother.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to their favorite charity in Al’s memory. Friends can also stop by PJ’s Sandwich Shop in Parrish, Fla., to write down their favorite memory or story of Al on the board. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 2, 2016 at Palm View First Baptist Church, 415 49th St. E., Palmetto, Fla., 34221. The visitation will begin at 5 p.m., service at 6 p.m.
John D. Lay
JOHN D. LAY
John D. Lay, 86, of Sun City Center, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on August 22, 2016.
He was born September 18, 1929, in Barboursville, Ky., to his parents Charles and Cynthia (Hamilton) Lay. He was a veteran of the United States Navy serving during the Korean War. He was married to his loving wife Nora Edna (Ore) Lay, for 66 years. John was the plant manager for SOS Steel company.
In matters of faith, he held a strong belief in Jesus and of the resurrection. In matters of practice, he was an ordained deacon, serving Zion United Baptist Church before his retirement, first to Russell Springs, Ky., and then to Sun City Center, Florida. John will always be remembered as a faithful husband and an inspirational role model for his children: Dennis (Judi) Lay of Chicago, Denise (Tom) Cox of Atlanta, Derrick (Teresa) Lay of Hamilton, Lisabeth (Mike) Leist of Lutz and his 10 grandchildren: Tom, Jessica, Lauren, Brendan, Austin, Madison, Trent, Jamie, Bailey and McKenna. John was also an avid golfer who loved the game like no other! He was darn good at it having made 11 hole in ones! He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers (Roy and Charles) and leaves behind his sister Geneva (Donald) Moore, his brothers JC (Glennon) Lay, Cecil (Denise Prater) Lay, and a lifetime of many dear friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation on behalf of ALS Association Florida Chapter or Hospice House. A service will be held for the immediate family. His interment will be at Florida National Cemetery located in Bushnell, Florida.
