Thornton Hayes Griffin, Jr., affectionately known as Hayes, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Windsor, Virginia, at the age of 84. Born on February 5, 1942, in Suffolk to Thornton and Orie Griffin, Hayes lived a life marked by dedication to his family, work, and community.

Hayes began his working life digging and shocking peanuts. He later worked as a diesel mechanic at Ferguson Manufacturing before refining his skills as a welder at Newport News Shipbuilding. His strong work ethic and leadership qualities led him to Virginia Power, where he retired after serving as a respected supervisor. He also proudly served his country, receiving an honorable discharge from the Virginia National Guard.

Beyond his professional life, Hayes was a man of varied interests and deep passions. He was a devoted outdoorsman who found joy in deer hunting as a houndsman and spending summer days fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. An avid sports enthusiast, Hayes was a loyal supporter of NASCAR racing and the Washington Redskins. Hayes was also a milk bottle collector, stemming from his father’s time working at Greenfield Dairy.

Hayes's was heavily involved with numerous organizations, including helping found the Myrtle Hunt Club and VA Power Kilowatt Club. As a founding member of the Kings Fork Athletic Association and past member of the King’s Fork Ruritan Club, Hayes contributed significantly to the local youth sports. He was also one of the original members of the Windsor Youth Foundation and helped build the ball field at Windsor Manor with Willie B. Copeland. Hayes was a past member of the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department, the American Legion, Isle of Wight County School Board, and served as Chairman for events like the Smithfield Ham and Gourmet Food Festival, Suffolk Peanut Fest, and Suffolk Balloon Fest and Spring Spectacular.

Preceded in death by his father, Thornton H. Griffin, mother, Orie Johnson Griffin, daughter, Sue Ann Griffin, brother, Milton Griffin, and several close relatives, Hayes leaves behind a legacy of love and strength. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joni Griffin; sons T.H. Griffin (Ashley) and C.J. Griffin (Kimberly); sister Jackie Russell, brother Kenny Griffin(Cheryl), grandchildren Allen Bradshaw (Victoria), Anslie Griffin, Emory Griffin, Alivia, Journee, Gracie, and Everleigh; great-grandchildren Lilly, Abel, Aurora; nieces Tracy, Kelly and Mary Shannon; nephew Kyle Griffin; several great nieces and nephews; and several of “the cousins”. Hayes also wished to include several lifelong friends including Robert “Pardner” Eley and “Buddy” Horne.

In remembering Hayes, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and unyielding service to others. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the cherished memories of those who knew and loved him.The family has requested any memorial donations to be made to Windsor Volunteer Fire Department in lieu of flowers.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory with Chaplain Marty Lee officiating. The family is requesting casual attire for the service. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.