Today is four years since you left your earthly home. All kinds of stories run through my head on this day every year. Trying to remember all I can. Trying not to forget a thing. Your smile and your kindness always come to mind first. Then your compassion for mankind is next. You never could stand to see anyone hurting or in need. Definately one of your redeeming characters but also one that got you in trouble by neglecting yourself. I wouldn't have it any other way. If that is what you had to answer for, I'm sure Jesus smiled at you and said, "of course you did!" 

But I created this site so Savannah would know you better and so I am trying to remember stories that will tell her more about who you were while here. So the story today is when we first moved to Italy and you wanted to make new friends so badly...

You had been invited to one of your classmates apartments for a party. We thought it odd that the party didn't start until almost ten at night. You didn't know the train stops very well but someone was supposed to meet you at the stop and help you find your way. Dad and I worried about you but knew you would call if you needed help. We were so surprised when you showed up back home just a little over an hour later. We asked how it went and you explained that it was a "horrible party" you said, "they were just smoking and drinking. I kept cleaning up spilled drinks... and when I asked if they had any games they didn't know what I meant. I had to ask if they had Monopoly or any board games, and no they did not. Then I asked if anyone knew any card games and no one did or was interested. So I left." We were sad for you because we knew you were disappointed but we were also very proud of you for trying to "fit in" in your own way and recognizing that it was not what you wanted to do with yourself. I was very proud of you that night for knowing yourself and not wasting your time!

We love you and miss you so much. Hope you can feel all our love and enjoy watching Savannah grow. I wish I could hug you again. Hope you know when we are thinking of you and it brings you joy.

Happy birthday Stephen. Today would have been your 28th birthday. Savannah has been talking about you so much lately. It sucks so bad that we cannot celebrate another year with you on this day. We do get to celebrate that you were once here, and while you were here we were truly blessed to have you apart of our lives. I wish I took advantage of that while you were here. You blessed me with an amazing daughter, she is almost 7 years old! She is beautiful and intelligent just like you were. Time sure is flying by and time.. does not heal all, because it hurts so bad that you are not here but you have one strong daughter!! She has mixed emotions that it is your birthday, and I will be sure to do our tradition today to make her happy. I know you'll be smiling down on her today. You are forever in our hearts Stephen Edward Griffith.

Another Father's day gone without you here.
Father's day is one of the hardest days. You were such an amazing daddy to our beautiful daughter. Savannah was definitely a daddy's girl, and she will always remain that. If I could have one wish it would be for you to be here and watch our sweet girl grow into a gorgeous, intelligent lady. Soon, our little one will be six and she will be attending first grade! I know you are with us, there's certain times I can feel it. Back to father's day: Savannah asked me in tears if we could buy you something, and bring it home for you even though you are not here. Now normally I would hold my cries in so that I can be strong for our little one, but I bursted into tears. Savannah looked at me and said "Aw mommy you are crying, but I am trying to hold my cry in". She is the STRONGEST girl I know. We love and miss you every day. Sorry for the novel, I just haven't posted in awhile!
Thinking about you always.

Stephen,

You're gone. I have a hard time accepting that. Some days I have a random thought, "Ah Stephen would think this is funny. I should call him." I had one of those thoughts today and it's difficult when inevitably and immediately followed by reality. I wish you were still here.

Most of all, I wish you could see how our family has grown. When Dad called me that late Saturday night I was expecting to hear that Savannah was getting her first Griffith cousin. It was only a few days later that Christian arrived. Tyler and I also had chosen to tell family that we were pregnant with our first that week. You never got to see these beautiful boys come into the world, and they didn't stop there... Savannah now has five boy cousins all born within two years.

But I think you'd be especially excited to find out that Savannah's first girl cousin is arriving this year. They'll be six years apart but undoubtedly close.

I am excited to be seeing all of these cousins this summer, but it is bittersweet. You will always be missed and forever loved.

I've been thinking about Savannah's dad a lot these past couple of days. It's hard when I'm at work & then our songs would play. I would either tear up, say a prayer, or both for strength. Savannah & I are missing her daddy like crazy. The holidays are always the hardest. My daughter is the strongest girl I know! She's very open & honest about how she feels. I wish he could be there to watch her grow into a beautiful lady. He would be very proud of how more & more intelligent & beautiful she's becoming. He has a good view though from heaven. I will be by her side til the day I die. She's my number one. She also has her daddy as a guardian angel. My heart has a special place for this sweet man. Many memories together. Many years spent.

This past Sunday, our church pianist played "All is well with my soul" during the offeratory.  Tears came to my eyes, and I immediately felt Stephen's presence. Two years ago, we learned about love and about how Stephen was all about love, and we sang All is Well with My Soul together.  I have a very difficult set of tasks ahead this week,  and need God's presence. It seems that Stephen is bringing God's presence to me, encouraging me to stay connected to God during this difficult week for all of us.  

A letter of recommendation written by Professor Sharon T. Miller of Lone Star College for Stephen’s application to the Marines:

January 26, 2011

To whom it may concern:

     As someone who has known Stephen Griffith for many years, I would like to recommend him for military service in the United States Marine Corp. He exhibits the strength of character, intelligence, and drive that will benefit the Marines and the country.

     I first knew Stephen as a child, and I have had many opportunities to observe his actions, his character, and his growth into manhood. As his Klein United Methodist Church Sunday School teacher and a sponsor for our teen ministries, I have taught him and participated with him on several trips as well as worked with him during regular Sunday meeting times. In the mix of children and teenagers, Stephen has been a person of intelligence and strength who exhibited his passion for helping others from his youngest days. He has a quiet, thoughtful spirit that thinks deeply, reflects with energy, and competes with passion.

     Stephen is one of the most physically fit young men that I know. During his younger years, he competed locally and regionally in gymnastics, and he has continued to maintain his fitness into his adulthood. In our Sunday games, Stephen was at the center of the action, in perfect control of his body in space and well aware of where everyone in the room was. Underneath that strength was a caring connection to the others in the group, and he often demonstrated by his actions that he was a team player who could lead or follow as the situation demanded. Like everyone in his family, he is an outdoorsman and a sportsman familiar with risk.

     Unlike many men, Stephen has gifts in art and music, talents that often coincide with high intelligence. His art reveals an important sense of space and proportion with a careful attention to detail and willingness to painstakingly get those details right. It also reveals that Stephen is capable of looking beyond the surface of a person or a situation in order to grasp an underlying meaning that may be invisible to others. It was no surprise to anyone who knows him that Stephen was able to score very highly on his college entrance and military exams. He has huge academic potential and is capable of excelling at the most mentally challenging task.

     Stephen’s decision to pursue a military career has been firm and focused. With an honest patriotism, he has chosen a life of service to the United States of America, and I respect and admire him for it. Stephen will make an excellent Marine.

Today would have been your 26th birthday and tomorrow is Mother’s Day. It got me thinking about what makes a mother most happy? For me it was when all my children were gathered together and enjoying life. You boys sure knew how to do that. This picture shows it well. We were out walking one night in Milan, Italy and everyone was happy to have the older brothers over from America. Someone spotted the Smart Car and decided to see if Alex could fit into one. I said, “wait, I need a picture” and you all struck a pose. Then we laughed hysterically about why anyone would want one of these and other funny things we had been noticing that day. It was a wonderful night for me, having all my babies in one place and seeing them so happy. You boys certainly knew how to have a good time when you were together. Your laugh and smile are very much missed my dear one.

It's Jan. 6th and I'm just now taking down the Christmas tree... I couldn't stop thinking about Stephen and how much he loved Christmas. As he got older he would sometimes protest when I asked him to help decorate the tree, but once he got started he was in his element. He and I decorate much the same... balancing and coordinating until it was just right. Stephen would often step back from the tree with a critical eye and then make adjustments until he was satisfied. I do the same thing. I don't know if he got it from me or it's just in the genes but I'll never decorate another tree without remembering him. Seeing the glimmer in his eyes when the tree was all decorated and finally lit up. 

I'm so glad I saved all his hand-made ornaments. The biggest blessing this year was how excited Savannah was about decorating. She couldn't wait to open all the attic boxes, touch everything and wanting to place them all. And then she couldn't wait to show Papaw all the decorating we had done while he was at work. It was a joy to see so much excitement again. She also knows the reason why we celebrate Christmas and loves to sing the Christmas hymns. She wanted so much for him to be here with us. I pray God let's him have a peek cause I know it would bring her daddy joy.

Since it is around Christmas time I thought this would be a nice picture to share! This was our last Christmas together as a family. He was "shocked" I got him a video game for Christmas & he was so happy! In the background is Dan playing music with his guitar while we were opening presents. So many amazing memories that I will never forget, and I cannot wait to share with Savannah in the future.
The holidays are always the hardest without Stephen here, because those are the times we spent together the most. Stephen was always so silly, and that is one of the many things that I love about him. His face is priceless here.
Missing you every day.
Praying for all of the Griffith's. Just know he is in all of yall's hearts.
Love always,
Becca.       

I think about Stephen often. We had a lot of good times together, some frustrating times, and some plain old silly times. He was a simple but deep guy. He wanted little more than to be happy and make others happy but he gave considerable thought to his beliefs and the world around him, even the small things.

Sometime in 2006, Kevin and I were visiting the family in Italy when Stephen asks during dinner, "Do you think 'you're welcome' and 'welcome home' are the same kinds of the word 'welcome'?" It was so random we quickly dismissed him, agreeing that they're different uses of the word with different meanings. He got really upset that we dismissed him and said he'd thought about it a lot and that the uses were similar meanings. I think he may have even stormed out but my memory's a bit fuzzy. He was a bit of a drama king sometimes though, but my view is a bit tainted as an older brother. To be honest, it's times like that that make you feel like a crappy older brother. He just wanted an ounce of support in something that seemed trivial to me/us but was important to him at the time. Turns out he was even right.

In many ways, I thought of Stephen as a voice for the underdogs. He stood firmly in his beliefs at a much earlier age than I first did, often taking the position of those easily dismissed by others.

Later, after Stephen had started attending UT Austin, a political election was upcoming. None of us was particularly political, but everyone has opinions and in our country we share them openly. Stephen asked once why we (roommates or whoever was over at the time) didn't like a certain candidate. People bashed this particular candidate a lot and he genuinely wanted to know why. Not surprisingly, none of us had a good non-petty reason. A voice for the underdogs.

He challenged the way people thought, which is something we need more of in this world. More importantly, he didn’t quickly jump to conclusions based on stereotypes and prejudices. He was a true defender of the underdogs, and he is truly missed.

Any excuse to have fun. Well, Stephen didn't really need an excuse. He had fun most of his life. But he especially loved to take Savannah to the local church (NW Bible) playground and go down the slides. This picture captures their adventures well. I'm pretty sure Becca took the picture since she liked to join them when she could or maybe it was Papaw. Lots of fun memories of them at the playground. Savannah was just starting to climb and loved to hide in the play house. Stephen would always pretend he couldn't find her so he could hear her giggle at him.

Stephen loved to play the drums. He had just received a Djembe for his 24th birthday and Savannah wanted to know how to play it. Stephen, wanting her to learn rhythm already, decided to teach her very specifically. Surprisingly Savannah, only 2 years old, was listening and trying to mimic his teachings. As usual, they had some good laughs together and we have a precious memory.

I just recently broke it off with Austin, this guy I jumped into a relationship with to make the pain subside but I never could love him, he was not you. We broke up and it's only been two days but for that period of time all I can and want to think about is you. It's sad, but I'm trying so hard to picture you in your happy moments, and I loved that that was literally the whole time. 

Sorry that I'm talking directly to him, I don't want to see this guy Austin mad about me talking about Stephen on facebook on his profile, otherwise I'd talk to him directly through facebook, it's odd but with his faceb account it's like you can talk to him, like he'd see it. I've tried talking outloud but it only makes things worse.

Sorry this is all so sad, but here's the happy part. Today's my birthday, and last year on my birthday he sent me this video because he knew I loved sparklers, he wasn't here during that time, he was in georgia with all you lovely folks, but i missed him and I'm assuming he missed me, because of what he was saying too me at the time. 

The story:

It was 11:50pm on July 3rd, He called me, although in georgia i hear there's terrible connection so he wasn't exactly at home and I was worried about him when he said where he was at to call me, but he did it anyways. He waited those 10 minutes on the phone with me, talking to me about really anything, we always had something to talk about. At exactly 12:01am he sung me happy birthday, and said all those wonderful things you say to a person on their birthday, but because it was from him, the man i loved, I couldn't say i was happier at any other point in my life then right then. I never had that type of connection with a person, and he made my life so joyous. I hurried him back to the house and said to go to bed because he was supposed to be back together with his family.

I don't remember exactly when he sent me this video, but he sent it to me knowing i was working on my birthday and knew that my favorite thing about fourth of july was SPARKLERS. His "aww" at the end just made it even better. Momma Griffith recorded the video, and i will always be thankful for having these moments and others too keep with me forever. I want to share more videos with you all but i feel like a couple are too personal. Sense it's July 4th though, know that he was SO HAPPY to be in georgia with all you, he loved being with his family, he loved everything about his brothers and I loved that they made him so happy. Dan especially, he told me their was just a bond, and god bless him.

I hope his family is doing okay, I pray everyone is holding on tight to all their happy moments of this fella, Stephen Edward Griffith, I love you and I pray you are happy where ever you are, and that you're watching out for miss Savannah.

Love, Amanda Rose. 

If you have ever met the Griffiths, you know that they are a fun-loving, warm, welcoming, and generous family, and Stephen was a Griffith through and through.

My story first intersected with the Griffiths back in 1996 when Kevin and I met at the first of many KUMC youth events. I didn't know Kevin had 3 little brothers and I had never met his parents. Back then, my 12 year old self never would have guessed that almost 20 years later I would consider all four Griffith boys to be like brothers and that Debi and Michael would be longtime friends rather than 'Kevin's mom and dad'.

But that Griffith family for you - you can't help but love them and you couldn’t help but love Stephen.

I have so many fond memories spending time with all the Griffiths. My memories of Stephen throughout the years are consistent - he was always happy, always smiling contentedly, always quietly watching, though still present and participating even if he wasn't talking or showing off as much as Kevin or Dan (because let's face it, they both love an audience). Stephen was so easy to be around, which is probably why he was always hanging out with us. I had my own little brother at home and he was the last person I would want hanging around when my friends were over, but I spent countless nights in junior high and high school, and even a few in grad school, hanging out with all the Griffith boys.

And as the years went on and we all started to go our own ways, I always felt like I could pick up where I had left off with Stephen. I had the unexpected pleasure of getting to see him all dressed up for his senior prom in Milan and though it was strange and surprising that I had arrived  in Milan somewhat suddenly just a couple hours prior, it felt like the most normal thing in the world to be there. When we both moved to Austin, I got to run into him around campus and give him big hugs in front of his new friends, either embarrassing him to no end or making them wonder how he was so close with a much older girl. I got to bring him cookies to help him mend when he was hurt. It may have been weeks, months, or even years between visits, but every time I saw him I was greeted with the same sweet smile.

It is still hard to believe that Stephen is no longer with us on earth, but his spirit is alive and well in my memories, in the legacy he left behind in his precious and beautiful daughter, and in all those he touched with his life.

Please see the New Year's Eve story below by Stephen's brother, Kevin.

I know it took me sometime to write on here. It has been so hard these past two months without Stephen. Savannah was very close to her daddy and she has been so strong it's unbelievable. Ever since I was told that Stephen was gone, my heart has been broken. A piece was taken from me. No matter what, I loved Stephen with all of my heart. We were in each others lives for over 4 years, and we made a beautiful baby girl. We always had love for each other, and I will never ever stop loving him. Savannah and I have to go on in life without him and honestly it really sucks. Even though we had some conflicts I planned on marrying this man. He was the love of my life. We had SO many memories together, before and after Savannah. I'm thankful that he at least got three years to be with our daughter, but I am sad that he won't get to see our daughter grow up into a beautiful lady.
So far, life has not been the same without Stephen of course. A lot changed. We miss him terribly. He was such a sweet person, the best daddy I could ever ask for, he was a kid at heart, funny, he was caring, helpful, loving, cute, strong and much more. He made such a huge impact on our lives. Here is a video he sent to me while I was at work one night and I was missing Stephen and Savannah. He would send me things to make me happy while at work. We love & Miss you Stephen, forever.
Love, Becca

It's hard to believe it's been two months since our Stephen has left this world. I wish I could say it's getting easier, but it is not.

Since today is Halloween I was remembering all the times the boys loved to dress up, especially for Halloween. Anyone who knows me well, knows I choose not to "celebrate" Halloween but would let Michael and the boys enjoy it. This particular year we were living in England and it was sort of a new celebration over there and costumes were scarce. We happened to find Thunderbirds for Alex but Stephen wanted to be a ninja turtle and Kevin a pirate so those were homemade. They "trick or treated" at some American function and the few neighbors we knew would be looking for us. They all enjoyed themselves but Stephen really enjoyed pretending to be a ninja in the dark. He was always so full of energy as a kid and sometimes to the point we'd have to make him sit and "be still"! I'm sure this was one of those times.

I'm happy to say that Savannah wanted to be an angel for Halloween this year cause her Daddy is with the angels. She looks beautiful Stephen and I thank God for your smile in her. I'll make sure she enjoys Halloween as much as you did. All my love!

We only started dating late may, or early June, we never got an official date. We decided on June 6th, but still weren't ever really sure.

This picture, was the first time either one of us said i love you to each other, he was brave enough to go ahead and say it through a text, i was shocked. We started to do this, I ____ you or deal, then eventually he just said it, and i just had to screen shot it. 

I was afraid of allowing our emotions to get involved, just in case things went south and our relationship wasn't meant to be. Obviously he turned out to be absolutely perfect, and I was glad we were able to love each other and be happy.

I miss you Stephen..i'll hopefully see you again some day. 

Stephen, I remember when you and Dan tried to learn Japanese from Naoki, Wakaba, Michika, and I on our awfully long school bus ride. Naoki would always tease you and try to teach you weird words and make you believe that they actually meant something important. We both would get annoyed at him for teaching them to you incorrectly, but we always ended up having a great laugh out of it. I'll never forget the time when you showed me your awesome acrobatic skills in that tiny space on the bus and we both would get in trouble by the bus monitor. You made the long bus ride into a place where I wanted to stay longer just because I didn't want to miss all the fun after I had gotten off at my stop.

To others it may simply seem like a story of all the immature things we did in high school, but that is because they don't know about all the smiles you've brought on our faces after a long and tiring day--it meant so much to us.

You taught me that little things should always make me happy. 

You cared and showed respect towards everything and everyone equally. 

You've left us strong messages that should never be forgotten.

I know you are in heaven, smiling down upon your loved ones and keeping them safe.

Miss you, my friend.
You'll always be in our hearts. 

I remember it like it was yesterday. We were in gym class and we were packing up our stuff. The subject religion came up with my friends, and I started going off about how Christianity was a nasty religion and anti science. Stephen stood there close to me with a shirt that read "a bread crumb and fish"--which I know now is an allusion to Jesus. He interjects in the conversation and simply says, "you know some Christians believe in evolution." 

That got me thinking, and that small moment with Stephen got me to read the Gospels again. We would have conversations on msn about faith and doubt, sexuality and religion. I was struck by his compassion and graciousness he handled our discussions, and his character in general.

If it weren't for Stephen, I don't know if I would have ever converted back to Christianity. He made me feel that God has a place for me in the Kingdom of Heaven just as I am. And as a gay man, that meant the world to me.

Those on the other side are still part of the Body of Christ, and they are rejoicing and praying for us without ceasing. It brings me comfort to know that he can hear me and, if I am quiet enough, I can hear him.

Thank you for bringing me back to God.

Thank you for being a good friend.

Thank you.

I remember back in high school when Stephen and I were both in the Praise Band and he played the drums. Several of us from the Praise Band decided we wanted to do covers of our favorite Underoath songs (a Christian hardcore/metal band). Stephen, being a huge fan, jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it. While I wasn't on stage with them I was a part of the planning process (which took quite some thought and preparation). Before the show me and (I believe Cathrine Gardner) decided that since Stephen had such long hair at the time we HAD to straighten it so he could head-bang properly. He was such a good sport about it especially since we had to do it in the section of the ladies room the brides normally use to get ready. I still laugh about his "enthusiasm" to get his hair straighten (though I know he'd never admit it) I know he was thrilled with the attention he got from several girls (who eventually had to join in). That night at youth the guys pulled off a great show that everyone had to admit was a risky move but ended up (in my opinion) being one of the best worship nights the KUMC youth has ever seen.

Stephen, Alex and Daniel were the younger brothers that I never had.

Growing up, Kevin and I were the classic inseparable best friends. Just about every weekend was booked up with sleepovers, video games and whatever antics we could rope the younger brothers into doing for our own sadistic amusement. Because of the amount of time I spent over there, the Griffiths became my second family, whether they liked it or not (I think they did — I never really heard complaints).

There's one particular story that I remember about a young, ~10-year old Stephen that sticks out in my mind more than the others — in part because of the dramatic nature of it, but also because there was truth hidden in it that has been at the forefront of my mind since I learned of Stephen's passing.

The entire Griffith family and myself were packed into their minivan driving back home from eating breakfast. Tension was high for reasons I can’t completely remember. Let’s just chalk it up to there being five juveniles sandwiched in a minivan together, jacked up on what was very likely a donut run.

Stephen and Daniel were crammed next to each other in the back seat and, as usual, doing everything in their power to tick each other off. Michael, our designated driver and the camel whose back was already broken, had subsequently just had another handful of straw dropped on top of him as his youngest son Daniel erupted into screams about Stephen having crossed over to “his side” of the seat (vintage younger brother move. Daniel was a pro).

That was it.

What patience still remained was now gone and before we knew it, we had abruptly pulled over to the side of the road. Fed up, Michael told Stephen to step out of the van so that he could walk the rest of the way home. From what I remember, we were no closer than 3 miles away from their house on one of the busier 4-lane roads in our town.

I’m 28 now and I have three young kids of my own. Had I had the perspective that I have now when this all took place, I would have kicked off an epic slow clap for Mr. Griffith. Instead I sat wide eyed, stunned, desperate to find a place to fix my eyes on that didn’t feel awkward.

Unsuccessful.

Stephen tried to apologize. He begged for another chance, but he knew that he had no choice. He slowly made his way up from the back seat and stepped out from the car. Debi, completely understanding that her son needed to be taught a lesson, just couldn’t bring herself to drive off without him. She stepped out of the van to walk with him. Michael begged her to get back in the van, but she refused. She just couldn’t do it.

Not quite ready to make his wife walk several miles back to the house, Michael eventually asked that they both get back in the van. They did and we all drove back home. Nobody made a sound.

I was too young to understand the marital dynamic that had played out that morning, and quite honestly I probably still don’t completely understand, but now being a husband a father of my own children, I can fully comprehend something that the Lord had shown me that day.

When I think back on that morning, what I remember the most is not how awkward I felt. I remember Stephen’s father, even in his frustration, desperately wanting to teach his son obedience and to live life with character that comes from Jesus. I remember Stephen’s mother, even in her frustration, staying by her son’s side and protecting him under her wings just as the Father does for his children.

Stephen lived his life surrounded by people that loved him deeply.

It is a complete tragedy to say goodbye to Stephen this early in his life. Even during his memorial service, I subconsciously still expected to see him, standing by his brothers — expecting to be able to walk up ask him how life and being a father was going. It’s hard and confusing to understand why he’s gone, but since his passing, I’ve been able to truly celebrate and thank God for his life — not only because of who he was and the lives that he affected, but because of how blessed and rich his time here was for him.

Stephen is alongside Jesus now, completely redeemed and transformed, and is rejoicing over how much he was loved by the people around him. That is a beautiful truth worth celebrating.

Stephen would do anything to make Savannah laugh. He happened to catch this one on video.

Stephen also loved to hear Savannah singing. This was one of those moments and he caught it on video.

Stephen loved to push Savannah on her swing and I think mostly because of her marvelous giggles. They are very contagious.

This photo, was caught of him laughing, man i miss that laugh.



Stephen Edward Griffith.

This guy, he came into my life kinda sudden, but in a good way.

Before Stephen, I dated this guy named Santiago, I thought I was in love with him, and that I was happy, sure fooled me. When Stephen entered the picture, he showed me how a real relationship was supposed to work, how we're both supposed to be happy.

He was amazing, always smiling, and always finding a way to make us all laugh. Every night, if we weren't together, we'd never miss a single phone call, and always said "Goodnight, Sweetdreams, and I love you", and every morning, it was a sweet, "Hey babe, goodmorning". Of course, although we loved spending time together, he'd always be ready to head home on time to put Savannah to sleep, sadly, he'd want to come back out, which wasn't always the best idea but still any second we had together was perfect.

My brother, Michael, didn't know we liked each other at first, and we kinda hid it from him not sure of his reaction, but he ended up being okay with it, and it made him more of a brother to Mike. These two, were inseperable, but a pure joy to be around. They were always cracking jokes, wrecking on league, and one hell of a team. My nephew, Michael's son.. man did he love Stephen, especially that fro', haha, he'd always smile so bright when stephen showed up, staring at that big ol' bush. :)

I can't give y'all a real story about Stephen, i can just give y'all why I loved him and why he was such an amazing boyfriend. If i was ever upset, even about the silliest of things, he'd be right there. Always ready with those strong warm hugs of his, and positive attitude. Even if I thought the worst of a situation, he'd always say, "We'll figure it out, and it'll be okay so don't worry about it", but being a girl, of course i worried, yet he never got annoyed.

Stephen was an angel, always ready to lend a helping hand, without expecting a single penny in return. He never looked down on anyone, and we loved to consider ourselves "hippies" haha, as silly as it was.

Before i met him, i never knew what true love really was. I was always in those type of relationships where the guy tore down the girl, but he always made me feel like i was on top of the world. & His love for his child, just made him even more incredible. I cannot name one flaw, one negative thing about him, because he was always on top of his game.

These past couple weeks, i've been too down to really do much, but just today i woke up, and things seemed to be getting a bit better, i kept reminding myself Stephen wouldn't want any of us to be sad about his passing, he'd want us to live our lives to the best of our abilites, and just be as happy as possible.

My love, Stephen Griffith, I will miss you, but i know you'll always be in all of our hearts, and our guardian angel.

The best New Year’s eve in my life is hands-down 2006 in Milan, Italy, and Stephen played a big role in the entertainment that night.  After dinner, a group of us decided to take a train to the Duomo at the center of the city and celebrate the New Year in style with all the locals.  Lindsey was the oldest of our group, at 21, and Stephen was the youngest at 16.  My brother, Alex, my best friend, Ricky, and two fellow ex-pat friends rounded out the rest of the crew.

 Stephen missed a lot of things about the US, but he didn't show it that night.  He was as happy as I had seen him in a long time.  Lindsey and Ricky were like family to us so maybe the reunion brought out that blissful smile of his.  We all embraced the opportunity and let the good times flow.

 The drinking laws are very different in Italy so we all were able to toast to the New Year with champagne.  There were even street vendors selling cheap bubbly for a couple Euros a bottle.  We found a lot of other things to toast to as well.  Needless to say, inhibitions faded as the night went on.  

 Fireworks were everywhere, and I mean absolutely everywhere.  Locals would light fire crackers and throw them at our feet.  That made Lindsey very uncomfortable and Stephen was quick to defend her from the crazy people, as were Alex and Ricky. 

 Everyone was wearing Santa hats so we quickly came up with a game where we would try to squeeze the puff ball at the end of the hat without the wearer noticing.  Our coordination wasn't at full capacity at the time so we didn't win very often.  At one point Ricky decided he wanted a hat and took it right off a passer-by which almost started a fight with some very flamboyant Italians.  Once again, Stephen was quick to play protector but tempers fizzled and we parted peacefully.

 The countdown was unforgettable:  the backdrop of a medieval cathedral, the sea of people, the fireworks lighting up the night sky, the foreign languages buzzing all around us, the champagne flowing to no end.  We put our arms around each other and joined in:  tre...due...uno...HAPPY NEW YEAR!  “Cheers” all around.

 We walked the streets of Milan until the crowds trickled away.  Stephen created one of his most memorable tag-lines at this moment.  He was really into skate boarding at the time and "grinding" was a type of move where you slide the board over an object, typically a rail.  Well he didn't have his board, but that didn't stop him from showing us his moves.  He yelled out "Hey guys, I'm going to do a 'Taint Grind'" and then proceeded to jump onto and straddle a rail as if he would slide right over it.  You can guess what happened.  He racked himself pretty good and we all fell over laughing.  It was hilarious.  It was so Stephen.

 Snowflakes began to fall and the streets were almost empty when we realized that the trains had shut down and we had a long way to walk home.  Luckily my father was still awake and graciously picked us up in the minivan.  I expected him to be mad because it was so late, but he seemed to be happy that we were all having such a good time.  "What a great Dad," I thought to myself.

 When we got home, I realized that Stephen was still quite tipsy.  I didn't know how our mother would react so I told him to play cool.  Well he blew that right away by proudly announcing that he did a "Taint Grind" and went on the tell the story while my mom tried to hold back laughter.  I thought she might be mad since we allowed her son to drink so much champagne, but like my father she too just seemed happy that we had a good time and made it home safely.  She was a really good sport and let us savor the moment.  

 It's funny to think that of all the amazing things that happened that night, the most memorable moment was of Stephen.  The "Taint Grind" story has become famous in my family and I'm sure it will be told countless times in the future as we gather and reminisce about good times.  Stephen's fun-loving spirit will live on in our tales.  

 I love you, Stephen, and I will never forget the good times we had.

 Kevin Griffith

Discipleship at a Funeral. (by Ryan Roberts)

Today I went to honor a man that died at 24 (motorcycle accident last Friday) who is leaving a lot, including a bright future and 3 year old daughter.

It’s tragic.

It’s sad.

It raises doubts and frustrations.

The truth is

…I heard many laments today that were all over the place.

…I heard crying and laughing.

But I heard something that made me feel small.

I heard “God is Good” from this young man’s father.  I saw joy.  I felt the Holy Spirit in this father’s soul.

All these people were gathering, doubting and struggling, and I heard “God is Good” from this man that reminded me that suffering well is a mark of a disciple.

Thanks Michael

Alex and Stephen jumped of this famous cliff at Pace Bend Park into lake Travis in Austin and joined the Stillwells on Ricky's boat.  Something I would never do!

His name was Stephen, not Steve. I learned that one evening many years ago when I directed Children's Choir at KUMC and Stephen was probaby 7 or 8 years old. 

My brother is also Stephen and growing up we always called him Steve, so when I met  Stephen Griffith in choir, I didn't even think about it and immediately called him Steve. We were a few weeks into rehearsals when he finally had had enough.

"Why do you call me Steve? My name is Stephen!"

I know I must have been driving him nuts all those weeks and I did, of course, after that always call him Stephen. And I've never forgotten the lesson I learned from that little boy.

A couple of months ago we had a new guy join our team at work. Our boss introduced him as Stephen. My mind immediately jumped back oh so many years ago to Stephen Griffith.

"Do you go by Stephen or Steve?" I asked.
"Stephen."
I smiled. "It's nice to meet you, Stephen."

Debi,

This brings back so many darling, special memories of when our boys were childhood friends at this age back in Spring Creek Oaks. I remember the first day we meet ya'll and we were so thrilled to have boys the same age, that would be living around the corner. Eric and Stephen spent many joyous times together in those wonderful early years, scouts, skating, swim meets, just playing at each other's homes. I phoned Eric yesterday when I learned of Stephen's passing. Our entire family is so saddened by this and will keep you all in prayers, and the memories forever dear in our hearts. Love to you all! Babette Vlahos