Joe William Griffey, Sr., born on November 25, 1947, peacefully departed on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. A dedicated and retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, Joe served his country with honor and distinction.

In addition to his military service, Joe had a passion for NASCAR, finding joy in the thrill of fast cars and indulging in the art of tinkering with classic ones. His love for old westerns was a shared bond with his beloved wife and daughters.

Joe found joy and fulfillment in the companionship of his cherished wife. Together, they embarked on adventures, exploring sandy beaches, traversing the Great Smoky Mountains, and creating cherished memories along the way. Their favorite journey was a remarkable trip to China, where they immersed themselves in the rich culture and history of the beautiful country.

Joe will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to both his country and his family. He leaves behind a legacy of service, commitment, and the joy he brought to those fortunate enough to know him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ott Griffey; mother, Rene Griffey; brother, Robert; and son, Joey Griffey. Joe is survived by his loving wife, Gail Griffey; daughters, Kathy Jo (Mark) Rondomanski and Dener (Steve) Dille; step-sons, Steve (Robin) Meador, Tom (Melissa) Meador, and Tony (Amy) Yakos; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; uncle, Bobby Keener; and special cousin, Janice Andrukaitis.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Joe's life on Saturday, February 17, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. at Greer McElveen Funeral Home & Crematory, 725 Wilkesboro Blvd NE, Lenoir, NC 28645. Interment will follow at 12:00 P.M. at Brookford Cemetery, 6301 Olas Drive, Hickory, NC 28602. Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Air Force.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jaydan Meador, Tony Yakos, Tom Meador, Rick Griffey, Mike Griffey, and Mark Rondomanski.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to two meaningful causes close to Joe's heart:

America's Gold Star Families - Founded to provide honor, hope, and healing to those grieving any military loss while serving active duty. Open to all family members who have lost a loved one while serving active duty in the United States Armed Forces. Link to donate https://americasgoldstarfamilies.org/donate

Wounded Warrior - A Veteran-founded and Veteran-run charity directly serving the needs of our Nation's Wounded Veterans and their Families. Link to donate

https://woundedwarriorsfamilysupport-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1276177

May Joe William Griffey, Sr. rest in peace, and may his memory live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Online condolences may be left at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Griffey family.