James William “Jim” Griffey, 74, of Clinton, IN, passed away at his residence at 3:40 pm on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Born September 5, 1951, in Indianapolis, he was the son of Katherine (McIntyre) Steers. He married Retta Adams on March 14, 1970, and she preceded him in death on June 27, 2012.
Jim graduated from Arlington High School in Indianapolis, IN, and then proudly served four years in the United States Marine Corp. After serving his country, he worked as a union steelworker until his retirement. After retirement, Jim worked at Camp Atterbury as a Fiber Optic Locator. He was a member of the Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church in Waldron, IN, a member of the Clinton Eagles Lodge, and was an avid ham radio operator. He loved motorcycle riding, fishing, golf, and was a self-taught piano, guitar, and saxophone player. Jim also enjoyed shooting pool.
Jim is survived by his three daughters, Leah (Paul) Welker, Velvet (Rick) Schmidt, and Amber (Scott) Deverall; four grandchildren, Alisha VanArsdale, Jordan VanArsdale, Abby Welker, and Lauren Schmidt; step-granddaughter, Yasa Deverall; and one step-great-granddaughter, Emberlynn Deverall. He was preceded in death by his mother, Katherine Steers; his wife, Retta Griffey; his half-sister, Karen Sue Jordan; and his step-grandchild, Alex Schmidt.
Graveside services for James William “Jim” Griffey will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Heltonville, IN, with Pastor George Mitchell Officiating. Military Rites will be accorded by the Honor Guard of the Gillen Post 33 of the American Legion.
The staff of Ferguson-Lee Chapel of Thorne Family Funeral Homes is honored to have been entrusted with the care of Mr. Griffey and his family during this difficult time. Memories and condolences may be shared and flowers ordered at www.ThorneFunerals.com.
