Alton Griffith

passed away on Sat, Nov. 18, 2006 at the Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, TN. Alton's 81 years of life were a joy every day to his wife of 56 years, Irene (Pat) Griffith, his daughter Gwendolyn; and all the family and friends who loved him. He was a loving husband and wonderful father much beloved by his wife and daughter. He was preceded in death by his three siblings, Lina Caver, Zena Murray, and Jerome Griffith. Born Alton Coke Griffith in Birmingham, AL in 1925, Alton was a kind, generous, gentle and loving man with a quick wit that brought chuckles to his family right up to his last day. He appreciated the beauty of music, nature and art and a great college football game. Alton lost his parents at a young age and was raised by his sisters, who were often praised for the fine man that Alton became. During World War II Alton enlisted at age 17 where he served with distinction and achieved the rank of Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He earned his wings as an AAF Air Crew Member and proudly served in the 408th Fighter Squadron, 372nd Fighter Group, flying many missions in the European theater. He was decorated with a Silver Star, Air Medal, Bronze Cluster and Overseas Service Bar for his courage in battle. Following his military service, Alton earned his GED and used the GI Bill to get a bachelor's degree from the school of business and commerce from the University of AL, Tuscaloosa. After the war, Alton met and married the love of his life, Irene (Pat) Stough, of Fayette, Alabama. They were married for 56 years and raised a daughter, Gwendolyn Griffith, a veterinarian and educator who lives in Nashville, TN. Alton's chosen profession was in sales of homes and building products. For over 30 years he enjoyed a life of back roads travel and customer sales. He was a man who enjoyed life's simple pleasures and was beloved by all who knew him. Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon, Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at the Currie Jefferson Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens at 2701 Hawkins Parkway (Hwy 150) in Birmingham, AL. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm in Jefferson Memorial Gardens, South. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to Oakmont United Methodist Church in Homewood, AL, where Alton and Pat were members for many years.