Jacky R. Griffin, 71, of Bay, Arkansas, passed from this life on Friday, April 10, 2026. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, coach, mentor, athlete, musician, and friend.

Born on November 28, 1954, Jack was the son of Johnny Willis Griffin and Ruby Beatrice (Smith) Griffin. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan before moving to Bay, Arkansas, alongside his siblings whom he is preceded in death by: Johnny Griffin, Helen Cambron, Timothy Griffin, and Shirley Griese. He is survived by his sister June (Griffin) Wheeler.

Jack’s life was filled with stories, laughter, and strong friendships. Wherever he went, laughter and music would follow. He spent his younger years playing basketball in the “old gym” at Bay High School and gathering with friends at the pool hall. He shared lifelong friendships with Terry Gibson, Lynn Scott, Jim Ladd, and many others. He also enjoyed playing in bands during his early adulthood, as well as playing poker, telling stories, and pulling lighthearted pranks that brought joy to those around him.

Jack met the woman who would become his lifelong wife and best friend, Sandi Ladd Griffin, before Algebra class one day. He was known for his simple favorites, often stopping by Ladd’s café in Bay for a chocolate milkshake made with chocolate ice cream and a double cheeseburger. Their connection carried through their high school years, where they were honored as Homecoming King and Queen in 1972. Their life together would span the rest of his, built on deep companionship, devotion to family, and a steady commitment to caring for those around them.

Jack graduated from Bay High School, Class of 1973, where he was known for his involvement in school life and athletics. He participated in FFA for four years, basketball for four years, baseball for four years, and track and field for three years. He was also recognized in connection with school traditions and athletic competition, including holding the NEA free throw record among others, and remaining a proud member of the Class of 1973 throughout his life.

After high school, Jack built a career as an engineer, working on conveyors at Hytrol from 1980 to 2004. During his time there, he worked in multiple roles across the company, eventually moving from hands-on assembly work into positions where he mentored and trained younger employees in the jobs he once held. In his free time, he loved to golf and cherished his golf buddies. He also had a deep interest in education and often expressed a desire to become a teacher.

In later years, he became involved with the City of Bay Ballpark, where he found a way to support children and ensure there was a place in the community for them to play ball. He volunteered many hours organizing and assisting with local baseball, softball, and tee ball programs. He took great pride in helping provide opportunities for young athletes to participate in the game, making sure that any child who wanted to play had the chance to do so.

Jack was baptized and married at First Baptist Church in Bay, a place that held personal significance in his life.

Above all, Jack loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly. In his later years, he found great joy in supporting his nieces, nephews, daughter, and grandchildren as they pursued their goals and began families of their own. His legacy lives on through his quick wit, shared memories, and enduring love for his family. Jack will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, father, uncle, and grandfather whose presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Sandi Ladd Griffin of Bay; his daughter, Lori Griffin of Bay; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including his granddaughters Sophia Thompson (Ethan Andrews) of Marion and Olivia Ferguson (Porter Hutchinson) of Bay, along with great-grandsons Crew Hutchinson and Cross Hutchinson.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Thursday, April 16, at First Baptist Church in Bay, with Pastor Danny Taylor officiating. Services will begin at 5:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to the Bay City Ball Field. Jack loved his time there and all the kids would be so happy to see it grow. Send any amount to Bay City Hall P.O. Box 99, Bay, AR 72411.

Jack will be remembered for his humor, loyalty, and larger-than-life spirit.