Rev. Dr. Samuel Leonard Griffin, Jr.

      Reverend Doctor Samuel Leonard Griffin, Jr was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on September 16, 1932 to the late Samuel L. Griffin, Sr. and Annie B. Griffin. He and his siblings (Shirley, Betty, and Peggy) lived during the Great Depression Era. Reverend Doctor Griffin attended Overbrook High School in the Philadelphia School System. 

     While attending high school, Reverend Doctor Griffin met his other half, best friend and wife Lorraine Harmon. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably until 1953, achieving the rank of Private First Class. Private Griffin completed the Army’s Airborne School in Fort Benning, Georgia in 1950 and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. This elite unit is known for its rapid deployment, diversity, and versatility.

     After honorably serving his country, Reverend Doctor Griffin reconnected with Lorraine, having a whirlwind engagement and marrying in 1954. He was preceded in death by his lovely wife Lorraine and their three children: Sandra, Michael and Valerie.

     Reverend Doctor Griffin was indeed a scholar and successful businessman. He received a Master of Theology from the Crozer Theology Seminary on September 7, 1955.  Reverend Doctor Griffin was employed with the Veteran’s Affairs Hospital in Philadelphia in the 1960s until he went into business for himself. In the early to mid-1960s to 2008, he became the owner and CEO of Leonard Fuel Oil Company. After completing the Martha's Vineyard Theological Seminar, he received a Doctor of Divinity on January 29, 1995. Reverend Doctor Griffin and his lovely bride Lorraine retired happily and moved to Delaware. He was a devoted, faithful, and loyal member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church and Bethel AME Church of Smyrna, Delaware. 

      Reverend Doctor Griffin passed peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at the wise age of 92. He lived a full and meaningful life. Reverend Griffin was known for his kind heart, strong-minded demeanor, and unwavering strength until his transition. He will be remembered for his nature, passion for the Gospel, and dedication to his church communities and his family. Reverend Doctor Griffin, affectionately known as “Doc” or “Grand Pop,” leaves a legacy of kindness and compassion that will be cherished by all who know him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who love him.

     A funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Monday, March 3, 2025 at the Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, DE 19934 where there will be a viewing from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Monday.  A committal service will be 2:00 P.M. Thursday March 6, 2025 at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE 19701.  Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com. 

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