James Henry Griggs

James Henry Griggs, 88, passed away May 3, 2017 in Littleton, Colorado, surrounded by his loving family. James was born March 22, 1929 in Long Beach, California to Henrietta F. Griggs and Ernest F. Leonard. James grew up in Southern California. He received his bachelor's degree from Redlands University and received his master's degree from the University of Southern California (USC.) James joined the United States Navy via the officer candidate school and became a Naval officer. While in Flight School in Corpus Christi Texas, he met his wife to be, Diane Rogers. After his military service, he and Diane settled in San Diego California where they raised their four children and where he became a school teacher for 40 years. James was highly respected and loved. He received several awards and accommodations for his outstanding teaching and he also coached and mentored thousands of young people in the San Diego area. James loved the outdoors… the beach, the mountains, camping and hiking. He volunteered for his church in many capacities, especially in scouting and the young men's program where he loved to take them hiking in the High Sierras and canoeing down the Colorado River. James and Diane served a mission for their Church in Zimbabwe, Africa from 1993 to 1995. A beloved husband, father and friend, he will be missed by many. James is survived by his wife, Diane Rogers Griggs; four children, Michael, Cynthia, Bruce and James Griggs; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A Funeral service will be held at 10:00am, on Saturday, May 6, 2017, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 910 W. Ridge Road, Littleton, CO 80120. A viewing will be held at the Church from 9:00-9:30am. Burial with Navy Military honors will be held on Friday, May 12, 10:00am, at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 3698 S. Sheridan Blvd., Denver, CO.