Obituary of Jerry Lee Griffin

Jerry Lee Griffin, 59, a loving father and devoted husband, passed away on August 31, 2024, after a courageous battle with illness. Born on January 17, 1965, in Sylvania, GA, Jerry, affectionately known as "Jerrylee" (pronounced “Gerallee”) or “Black,” was the son of Mae Catherine Williams and Henry Griffin; the second to the eldest out of six children. In 1968, his mother moved to Washington, DC, where Jerrylee was raised and educated in the District of Columbia public school system. A man who loved deeply, Jerry’s life revolved around his family. He was blessed with his first child, Darrin Lee Thomas, from his early relationship with Wanda Thomas Foushee. Later, Jerry moved to Richmond, VA, where he met the love of his life, Rashida Robinson. They married on April 14, 2007, and built a beautiful family together, welcoming five children: Jemesha, Jerry Jr., Jeniyha, Jerrell, and Jelisha. Jerry’s devotion to his family was unwavering. Despite facing numerous challenges, including surviving a close-range shooting and recovering from a massive stroke, he remained a steadfast and loving presence in the lives of his wife, children. The Lord was faithful to Black because of numerous prayers for him from his family. His strength and resilience were a testament to God’s grace and mercy, His love and kindness towards him. Black found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid football fan, always cheering for his favorite team, the Washington Commanders. Music and dancing were among his passions, and he was known for his infectious rhythm and love of having fun. Raised in the church, Jerry carried his faith quietly, always knowing who to turn to in times of need. Above all, Jerry was a dedicated family man. He took great pride in his role as a father and husband, working tirelessly to keep his family close, despite the hardships of life. In his later years, Jerry and Rashida moved to New Jersey, where they spent their final chapter together. What’s most important to know, it’s not how Jerrylee started his race but how he finished. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal Savior and received his healing on the other side being welcomed by our heavenly Father. Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Rashida Griffin; his cherished children, Darrin Lee Thomas, Jemesha, Jerry Jr., Jeniyha, Jerrell, and Jelisha Griffin; his beloved grandchildren, De’Mahii and John Griffin; his devoted mother, Mae Catherine Williams; and his siblings, Mitchell (Yvette), Phillip (Melodie) Griffin, Brenda (Randy) McCain, and Donna (Steven) Brown. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly. Jerry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bertha and John Prescott; his father, Henry Griffin; and his sister, Cathy (Stanley) Turner.