Kenneth Lee Griffith

February 14, 1936 - December 14, 2016

Kenneth Lee Griffith, 80, passed away Wednesday December 14, 2016 surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren. He was born February 14, 1936 in Wellsville, Ohio to Dave and Delores Griffith. In his early years, he was a Thoroughbred jockey successfully riding at many tracks around the country. After retiring from racing, his second career was industrial construction and his last project before hunting and fishing on a daily basis was assisting in the building of the Hot Springs Convention Center. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Vickie Griffith, five adoring daughters, Bonita Ponce (Armando) and Kendalene Marra (Anthony) of Palatine, IL, Kenberlee Graves (David) and Renee Nowlin (Jerry) of Hot Springs, AR, and Kristie Lowry (Curtis) of Bryant, AR. He was blessed with 14 grandchildren (not all girls) and 15 great grandchildren. Each and every one of them were his favorite. He is also survived by 3 siblings, Sue Weiss and Michael Griffith of California, and Larry Griffith of Texas; brother-in-law, Lynn Selvidge (Linda) and sister-in-law, Belinda Castleberry (Ronnie) along with several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his beloved dog and best friend, Pickles. He will be remembered as an avid hunter, passionate fisherman, lover of nature and friend to all. Now it is our turn to say, “Remember who loves you!” There will be no memorial service but the family will hold a private celebration of his life. Donations may be made in memory of Kenneth Lee Griffith to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, PO Box 803, Elmhurst, IL 60126.