Griffin Family Memorial Fund

Losing someone dear is never easy. On May 5, 2012, the Griffin family of Oxford suffered an incredible loss when then 31 year old William Griffin Jr., or Billy as he was known to those closest to him, succumbed to an addiction to drugs that unfortunately so many people struggle with today. The Griffins lost a son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to many.

In the days immediately following Billy's passing, the outpouring of support from the community and beyond surrounded the family with a blanket of love. Out of this inconceivable tragedy has arisen both hope and commitment to honor Billy's life by educating young people about the dangers of drug addiction.

"We wanted the kindness of others and the numerous monetary gifts and contributions we received to help pay tribute to Billy's memory in the community where we were raised and he lived his entire life," said his sister Nicole Griffin. "The Valley Community Foundation was suggested by a family friend as a vehicle to establish a Fund in his memory. Our family has roots in the Valley, specifically in Oxford. It is because of that lifelong connection to Oxford that the Valley Community Foundation was the clear choice for creating the Griffin Family Memorial Fund."

The goal of the Fund is quite simple: to support drug awareness programs that educate Oxford's youth about drug abuse and the consequences of addiction.

"We originally were thinking about a scholarship at Oxford High School, but VCF provided us with several different options and really listened to what we were trying to accomplish," said Nicole. "It became clear to our family that what we really wanted to do was to remember Billy by letting others know how to stay drug-free. That's why we have created this Fund."

The Griffins hope to tell Billy's story to Oxford High School students, to share with them the irreparable damage drugs can do to a person and his/her family. "We also want these young people to know the good parts of his life; about his quick wit and huge smile," said Nicole. "Billy was truly a kind young man with so much potential. If one student thinks twice about abusing drugs because of Billy's story, we will have accomplished our goal."

To make a tax-deductible contribution to this fund, please complete the secure, online credit card form below: