SMSgt Donald E. "Bud" Griggs (RET)

Patrick, SC

SMSgt Donald E. “Bud” Griggs (RET), age 92, peacefully entered into rest on September 16, 2025, at Morrell Nursing Center. A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Patrick Cemetery, officiated by Mr. Alvin Tolson. Family and friends are invited to greet the Griggs family following the service at the cemetery and at the home of his grandson, Ronald Griggs.

Born on December 6, 1932, in Patrick, SC, Mr. Griggs was the son of the late Arnold Coonie “A.C.” and Nita Pankey Griggs. He served with distinction in the United States Air Force, dedicating over 20 years to his country, including service during the Korean War, Indochina War, and the Vietnam War. A decorated veteran, he retired with honor, achieving the esteemed rank of E-8.

Bud Griggs was a beloved member of the Patrick community. He was the former owner and operator of Patrick General Store and also managed the Patrick Laundromat. His involvement in community service included membership in the Patrick Rural Volunteer Fire Department and the Chesterfield VFW Post 11251. Notably, his generous land donation played a vital role in the creation of the Patrick Veterans Park, Walking Trail, and Family Picnic Area. In his earlier years, Mr. Griggs took great pride in coaching youth baseball and served as Scout Master for the Boy Scouts.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Griggs was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo Ratliff Griggs; sons, Donald T. “Buddy” Griggs, Billy Joe Griggs, and Ronald J. “Ronnie” Griggs; sisters, Frances Bice and Marian Jane Perdue; and granddaughter, Tabitha “Tee Jay” Griggs.

He is survived by his son, William “Bo” (Debra) Griggs, MD of Lake City, SC; grandchildren Ronald J. Griggs, Jr., Betty Griggs, Brittany Griggs, and Jennifer Griggs, all of Patrick, SC; Leslie Quick of NC; Brad (Jenny) Lajeunesse of Atlanta, GA; April Cockfield, Jennifer Stone, and Berkley Feagin, all of Lake City, SC; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Patrick Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 209, Patrick, SC 29584.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Griggs family.