Billy DeWayne Griffin died on Jan. 30, 2014, at his home in Irrigon, surrounded by his family at the age of 82.
He was raised in Naches, Wash., as a young man, then moved to Lexington. Billy enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 and served eight years, where he fought in the Korean War. Billy married Samie J. Umiker of Irrigon on Feb. 28, 1959. Billy and Samie resided in Irrigon for the remainder of his life. After his honorable discharge, Billy worked for Tidewater barge lines on the Columbia River. Later he learned carpentry skills from working at Kerns Furniture factory in Pilot Rock, and a cabinet shop in McNary. Billy then worked at the Umatilla Army Depot for 25 years before retiring in 1987 as a general foreman. Billy was a 40-plus year member between the Irrigon and Hermiston Assembly of God Churches. Billy was an avid hunter and outdoorsman where he loved camping, fishing. His greatest accomplishments and what he was most proud of were his wife, and six sons, their families and serving his Savior.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Samie; sons, Billy Jr., Sam & wife Maria, Tim & wife Estella, Pat & wife Brenda, Mike & wife Kim, James & wife Wendy; daughter-in-law, Leora Svatonsky; grandchildren, Nathan, Michelle, Cortney, Dustin & wife Nikkie, Corey, Ben, Tiffany & husband Riley, Kristine, Ryan, Madeline, Allison, Cody and Katelyn; great-grandchildren, Kassadie, Zack and Memphis; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Charlie, Ted and Jack; sisters, Loraine and Betty.
A memorial service was held at Hermiston Assembly of God church, Hermiston on Saturday, Feb. 8, 201. Private burial will be held at a later date at Desert Lawn memorial Cemetery, Irrigon.
Memorial contributions in Billy’s name can be made to Hermiston Assembly of God Church.
Please sign the condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
