Lester Dale Griffith

Lester “Dale” Griffith, 90, passed away on November 23, 2021. Dale was born on November 13, 1931, to Lester and Oleta Griffith in Clyde, TX. He graduated from Rising Star High School in 1951. He joined the United States Air Force shortly after. He married Joyce Garrett on March 25, 1955 in Mustang, OK. They have been married for 66 years, 8 months. They were blessed with four children, Weldon Dale Griffith and wife Glenda of Lohn, TX, Michael David Griffith and wife Karen of Mineola, TX, Terri Dawn Saldana and husband Karl of Clarksville, TN and Robert “Bob” Don Griffith and wife Nicki. They have been blessed with nine grandchildren: Sara Saldana, Ashley Griffith, Lindsey Griffith (Justin), David Saldana (Emily), Garrett Griffith, Katy Saldana, Jamie Griffith, Ella Griffith and Ike Griffith. They have three great-grandchildren: Riley Blair, Ian Saldana, Jaxon Blair and one on the way. He is also survived Betty Garrett, sister-in -law, Bill Myers, brother-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, half- brother Tommy and son, Bob.

Dale began his career as an enlisted airman and became an officer and retired as a Lt Colonel after 21 years of service. He was a navigator and pilot and flew many aircraft with the C141 being the last plane. He flew many missions in the Vietnam War in the C123. He retired in 1972 and settled in Mineola, TX where he was a faithful member of the Church of Christ. He was a devoted fan of Mineola High School athletics and served as the announcer for Mineola football games for 17 years. Dale also was a supporter of the Mineola Hay Show.

Dale spent his final days at Hospice of East Texas. We are thankful for the wonderful care he received. A special thank you goes out to Dr. Becker and his dog, Maisie, for bringing comfort and kindness to the family, and to Dale, during this hard time.

Dale will be laid to rest on Friday, November 26, 2021, at Roselawn Cemetery in Mineola, TX. Pallbearers will be David Saldana, Garrett Griffith, Jeff Myers, Richard Garrett, Justin Blair and Larry Gage.