Ray Nelson Griffin

Valrico, Fla.

Ray Nelson Griffin, 73, died cutting the grass at his house in Valrico, Florida, following a massive heart attack.

Ray was known for his love of family and friends — fellowship, storytelling, country music and preaching the gospel. He will always be remembered, treasured and loved by those who knew him. He never met a stranger.

He was a loving husband, father of three children and four step-children; with six grandchildren and four step-grandchildren; brother of eight, including Roland, Paul, Josie, Harold, Jackie, Denny, Mary and Freddie, who is deceased.

Ray leaves behind his wife (Dolores Griffin); his son Jonathan Ray Griffin and daughter-in-law Jessica Griffin; grandchildren Elijah Zane and Jessie Gray; daughter Jackie Sue Griffin and grandson Devon Tyler Konyha; grandchildren from deceased daughter Lisa Harris (father Roy Rafield), Roy L. Rafield III, Brandi R. Rafield and Danny Jessie Rafield with wife Paula Rafield; and great-grandchildren Mia, Audrey and Paisley.

His first wife, Jessie Yvonne “Bonnie” Griffin preceded him in death on January 1, 2004.

Visitation will be held at 5 p.m. for family, Monday, March 18 at Chelsea Community Church, at 4176 Hwy 39, Chelsea, AL 35043. Friends are welcome at 6 p.m.

Funeral services will be the following day at 11 a.m., Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at the same location. The church will host the reception following gravesite services in the fellowship hall.