Aug. 20, 1928 – July 23, 2016

NATCHEZ — Memorial graveside services for Francis C. “Dink” Griggs, 87, of Vidalia, who died Saturday, July 23, 2016, at his daughter’s home in Monterey, will be 10 a.m. Friday at the Natchez National Cemetery.

Burial will follow under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Mr. Griggs was born Aug. 20, 1928, at Brownsville, Texas, the son of William Lawrence Griggs and Irene Bertha Griggs.

He served his country during World War II in the U. S. Navy Pacific Theater.

Mr. Griggs was a former millwright and oil field worker. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Melba M. Griggs; one brother; one sister; and one granddaughter, Wendy Welsh Elbaz.

Survivors include two daughters, Sharon G. Cowan and husband, Johnny, of Monterey, and Martha G. Welsh and husband, Lenny, of Slidell, La.; five grandchildren, Lesley C. Baker and husband, Sam, of Springfield, Mo., Charlie Cowan and wife, Shaunna, Corey Cowan, all of Yuma, Ariz., Melissa Welsh and Kaya Welsh, both of Slidell; six great-grandchildren, Christine Cowan, Caitlynn Cowan, Zachary and Christa Sullivan, Molly Rose Sullivan, and Ransom Sullivan; one great-great-grandchild, Hanora Sullivan; one sister, Barbara G. Kelly and husband, John, of Madison, Conn.; three stepdaughters, Kathy Tyson and husband, Freddie Joe, Nell Byrd and husband, Rickey, and Mitzi Bolyer, and their children and grandchildren; and a number of special nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to Concordia Paws, 5139 Louisiana 568 Ferriday, LA 71334.

Online condolences may be sent to www.lairdfh.com.