Horace Griggs

Horace "Hawk" Griggs, Jr. was the only child born to the union of the late Horace "Buddy" Griggs, Sr. and Carrie Mae Griggs in Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Washington High School in Atlanta. He played football and was adored by many.

In October 1944, Horace joined the United States Navy and served until 1946. He was awarded the World War II Victory Medal. He reenlisted in the Navy in 1951 for a second tour of duty on the USS Adirondack. While on the ship, Horace acquired a love for cooking, and he became a master chef for which his family and friends had the pleasure of enjoying.

Horace married Elnora Cobb in 1955. Horace received her son Johnnie (deceased) into his loving arms and soon Horace Ellery Griggs, Ill was born. There was a true father, son relationship. They shared a love of boating and good times.

Horace worked for University Hospital in Cleveland as a lab technician. After that, he got to know the city of Cleveland even better as a bus and rapid driver for the Regional Transit Authority. Later, Hawk spent countless hours at Tuckers Casino as a member of the security team and as a patron. There he developed friendships, enjoyed parties and charmed his way into the hearts of many. Horace had a hobby of growing concord grapes and developing tasty wine. He had a love for the arts as well. He created many works of art via paintings, sketches and carvings. Horace also had a love for photography. He spent many years as a photographer for special occasions like weddings and corporate events. This passion was evident in his family time as well. Hawk took a plethora of pictures and created photo albums of family and friends that are appreciated to this day and will continue to be for generations.

Horace married Merle B. Spangler in 1972. To that union Merle brought Sherelle, Donald and Nicole who he loved as his own. They have many stories to share about discipline under his reign. This union bore Amber, who he named after the gemstone. Horace got saved at an early age. He loved the Lord and attended East Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years. He dedicated himself to caring for his mother until her death in 2001. Although, Horace did not speak in his last days, we trust that he looked to the heavens, to God's loving arms and let peace carry him Home.

Horace was preceded in death by his son Ellery. He leaves children Sherelle, Donald (Carla), Nicole, Shanitra, Amber (Terrod) and daughter in-law Valinda. Grandchildren Raymel, Ellery, Blake, Gia , lrisha, Taylor, Cheya, Aaliyah, Gina, Richard, Curtis Jr., Christian, Allen and Alexandria. He has a multitude of great grandchildren an great-great grandchildren. He has many cousins from the Ransom, Rose, Veale, Nimmons and Brown families. We also recognize the extended family Hawk welcomed during his time at Tucker's Casino.