Gary Lee Griffith

Gary Lee Griffith was born on February 18, 1953, in Portland, Oregon, to Allen Francis Griffith and Betty Ruth Kral. He was the second of five sons and spent his early years in Portland, where he later graduated from David Douglas High School.

Gary proudly enlisted in the United States Navy following his graduation—serving aboard the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War—where he was exposed to Agent Orange. His military service reflected his lifelong commitment to faith, family, and country.

On March 19, 1972, Gary was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. That same evening, he went on his long-awaited first date with his high school crush Ann Thatcher, who would later become his beloved eternal companion. Their love story became the foundation of a devoted marriage centered on faith, service, and family. They were married in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple on June 21, 1973 — allowing them to have more than 52 beautiful years together.

Following his military service, Gary graduated from Brigham Young University in Computer Science and Accounting, and worked diligently to provide for and support his family through various careers and opportunities. However, his greatest joy was found in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. Gary and Ann were blessed with ten children: Steven Griffith, Brenda Cutforth, Paul Griffith, Maryann Smith, Linda Beck, Kathy Smith, Jacob Griffith, Tammy Inskeep, Angela Staples, and Jennifer Peterson. The joy Gary experienced from choosing a wonderful companion was something he desired each of his children to have. Seeing them choose their spouses brought him great joy. He knew the blessings that accompanied an eternal marriage, and desired for each of his children to experience that. The 38 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren that followed were truly blessings that he cherished deeply. The model of love and family he created for his children to follow will bless many generations to come.

Gary faithfully served in many callings throughout his life in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His service included Bishop of the Glendover Ward in the Portland Oregon East Stake, bishopric and High Council member, ward missionary, seminary teacher, and many other callings. In his later years, he served as a temple ordinance worker and temple service missionary in the Denver Colorado Temple.

Gary had a deep love for missionary work and found great joy in sharing his conversion story and bearing testimony of the gospel whenever he had the opportunity. Gary dreamed of being set apart as a missionary, and wearing his Savior’s name over his heart ever since joining the church. When he was finally set apart during the last 18 months of his life, his eyes filled with tears and joy finally being called “Elder Griffith.” The only thing he loved more than missionary work was his beloved wife, Ann. He could often be heard expressing his eternal love for her and telling others how blessed he felt to be her companion for eternity.

Gary loved each of his children deeply and never missed an opportunity to remind them of his love. To many he was known as a gentle giant, who possessed a kind and inquisitive mind, a beautiful singing voice, and a remarkable ability to fix nearly anything. He spent his life caring for and serving others selflessly. Each of his children believed they were his favorite, as whenever they were having a tough time, Gary knew just how to comfort them, listen intently, offer advice, and give the most powerful and uniquely personal father’s blessings. To know Gary was to love him. He formed friendships easily and left a lasting impression on all who met him.

Gary passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at 6:59am in Colorado Springs, Colorado with his wife and family by his side. His final words were “I love you,” making sure everyone knew he loved and cherished them.

Gary is survived by his eternal companion, Ann Thatcher Griffith; his ten children and their spouses; 33 living grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Richard Griffith and Greg Griffith. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, several grandchildren, and many beloved extended family members and in-laws.

While his family mourns the loss of such a powerful and loving presence in their lives, they find comfort in knowing Gary is no longer bound by a failing body and has begun fulfilling his lifelong dream of a proselyting mission in the next life. His legacy of faith, service, and unconditional love will continue until the joyful day when his family is reunited with him again.

For all who would like to attend, a Celebration of Gary's life will be held at 1:30pm, on Monday, February 16, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3210 Bandanero Drive, Falcon, CO 80831.

A viewing will be held at the Church, immediatly following the service.

Gary will be laid to rest in Pikes Peak National Cemetery, one day shy of his 73rd birthday. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to funeral or other expenses. Thank you. Venmo: @LindaGBeck6 (last 4 verification 0896) or PayPal: linda.g.beck@gmail.com