Gregory Griggs

Gregory Ernest Griggs, our Wounded Angel, passed away on June 13, 2022 at American Fork Hospital.

Greg was born on March 5, 1962 in Salt Lake City to Ronald Griggs and Sharon Thomas. He is survived by his mother, Sharon, and brothers, Jeff and Robert.

Greg was born with severe cerebral palsy and although he could never walk or talk, he could smile, laugh, hug, and touch your heart. He spent his younger years living with his family in Salt Lake City. He enjoyed relaxing on the couch or playfully scooting along the floor. He loved to play with his baton or anything he could flip between his fingers. Most of all, he loved his great-grandmother (Nana) with whom he shared a special bond. Together, they would often go out to eat his favorite foods: burgers and Kentucky Fried Chicken.  At 14, Greg moved to the Utah State Development Center (USDC) in American Fork where he lived for the next 46 years. At USDC, he was very sociable and loved participating in activities. He would blow razzberries, twirl his baton, and give the biggest smiles you have ever seen. Greg loved to give hugs, he would reach out and grab you by the head, pull you tight, and give you a genuine, loving squeeze. His favorite dessert was chocolate cake and if you gave him a slice, he would instantly become your best friend. Greg had a big personality, lots of friends, and was the favorite of many at USDC.  He enjoyed the visits from his Mom and gave her lots of hugs and smiles

The family is very grateful to the many kind and compassionate staff at USDC that befriended and cared for Greg over the years.   Here is an inspiring poem they shared:

A  Mission Triumphant

My dear brother and those who live with him
Are fulfilling a mission sublime,
And they will return to the Father
To receive crowns of glory, in time,
In the meantime, they’re not being tested
It is WE who are taking the test,
And serving the least of God’s children
We are truly serving the best

Those children should dwell in a palace,
To be served by mankind while they wait.
We should deem it an honor to know them.
And to do everything that we can,
To comfort, to love and protect them.
They should not be forgotten by man.

By Joan Bills

A Funeral and Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, June 29th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm at St Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 E Spring Lane, Holladay,  Utah 84107.