William "Billy" R Griggs' Obituary
William “Billy” R. Griggs, 85, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida.
Billy was born on April 22, 1940, in Gainesville to Ralph N. and Raye Norris Griggs. A lifelong resident of Gainesville, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his military service, Billy became co-owner of Gainesville Neon & Signs, where he dedicated more than 40 years of hard work and commitment to serving his community.
Billy was a devoted husband, brother, and friend who cherished his family deeply. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Vinell Griggs; his sisters, Rebecca “Becky” Goodson and Alice Raye Fitzwilliam; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph N. and Raye Norris Griggs.
A memorial service with military honors will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Williams-Thomas Westarea Chapel, 823 N.W. 143rd Street, Newberry, with Pastor Jason Jones officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Antioch Cemetery Lacrosse 3606 N.W. 177th Ave.
Those who wish may make memorial donations in Billy’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://donorservices.alz.org
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