CRAIG/FLAGLER PALMS FUNERAL HOME
511 Old Kings Road South
Flagler Beach, Florida

David J. Griffis



On March 15, 2023, the world forever changed. David J. Griffis (68) more popularly known as “Coach Griffis” passed away at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL.

Born October 20, 1954, in Palatka Florida to Harold & Doris Revels Griffis.

David grew up in Palatka with his three brothers: Hal, Paul, & Tim Griffis, along with two sisters Carol Jean West and Myrtle Ann Hill. They were an inseparable bunch from the start and remained so up until the very end, even raising their families together and maintaining that closeness through each generation.

Like a true storybook romance, David met Nancy M Parker, when they were just 12 years old. The two began dating at 15, were later married September 6, 1975 and the rest is 47 years of true devoted history.

David was a graduate of Palatka South High School, attended St Johns River College, The Florida State University & received his master’s degree from United States Sports Academy. Coach Griffis began working in the Flagler school district in 1977 (alongside wife Nancy)

David built their family home on Creek Bluff in Flagler Beach, Fl in 1983. There he raised his family, hosted countless parties, and left the door open to many throughout the years until he retired in 2013.

Of the numerous accomplishments in his life, his greatest were his children, Tiffany Fink & Daniel Griffis (spouse Julie) David was the utmost example of a Godly, loving father who devoted his life to his wife and children. There was nothing more important to him.

While his world revolved around his children, perhaps an even greater joy for him was becoming a “Papa”. Haley, Grace, Sawyer, Cooper, Dawson, & Madeline were the apple of his eye. He filled their days with endless love and attention and was at every important event. All of the grandchildren always called for their Papa.

David coached football for many years, serving as a father to the fatherless and an example to young men. As a P.E coach he was beloved by all of his peers and children. The majority of the community learned to square dance and swim from Coach Griffis.

Coach sported a mustache that could rival Tom Selleck, and in his own words really “rocked” some short shorts. He was a big, strong man that had a protective feel about him but that paled in comparison to the size of his heart. He had the voice of an angel and shared his God given talent whenever he could. He especially loved singing in church and along side his brothers and sisters.
He loved to cook, go on walks at any and all hours, he had an affinity for the beach and the North Carolina Mountains. He embodied the spirit of Christmas & had an infectious booming laugh that will never be forgotten.

Apart from his dedication to family, friends, & work, David was a devoted FSU Seminole. It was his absolute pleasure to cheer them on and admired Bobby Bowden both on and off the field.

Above all of David’s passions, his love for the Lord surpassed them all. He was a true measure of a man and while his absence is profoundly felt and is a giant loss for the living, there is rejoicing in confidently knowing he is in heaven and was welcomed with “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

He is survived by the afore mentioned as well as his loving Mama (94) He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews he whole heartedly loved & special chosen family members. Preceded in death by his father and brother-in-law Jim West.

Family & friends will be received Monday March 20th from 1:00-2:00pm at First Baptist Church of Bunnell. 2301 Commerce Parkway, Bunnell Fl 32110. Funeral services will start at 2:00pm with Dr Scott Conner officiating. Interment will follow at Espanola Cemetery and luncheon at the church.

The family request attendees to come dressed in garnet and gold or Seminole attire!