John James Griffin

John J. Griffin, 79, of Plainville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 in the comfort of his home. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Leslie Ann Griffin, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2021.
John was born on September 30, 1946 in Waterbury, CT son to the late Michael Vincent and Catherine (Lee) Griffin. From an early age, John’s warrior strength and unbreakable spirit defined him. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, John served his country honorably during the Vietnam Era on special operations missions. He developed a profound sense of duty and honor that he carried throughout his life and often reflected on his time in service with pride, embodying the values of dedication, bravery, and commitment. 
John was a proud member of Local UA 777 Plumbers and Pipefitters, where he not only honed his craft but also traveled extensively across the country and around the world for work. His journeys brought him a wealth of experiences and he relished the stories that came from his adventures in the trade. An event that marked him but never defined him was surviving the tragic Kleen Energy Systems power plant explosion in 2010. His legacy continues with his grandson, Camron, who John was immensely proud of for carrying forward the same devotion to the trade.
John's charisma and charm drew people to him. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures and shared that joy generously- whether swinging clubs on the course or cracking a cold one with friends at his favorite spot, the Blue Plate. He was a man whose family was always his top priority. Though he could be stubborn at times, those traits only added to the depth of his character and the love his family held for him. He dedicated himself to ensuring that his loved ones were well taken care of, offering steady support and guidance. His kindness and generosity will leave a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John is survived by his daughters, Pamela O’Neil and Erin O’Neil Cabral and her husband, Christopher; his daughter-in-law, Zofia O’Neil; his granddaughter, Alexa Allaire; his grandsons, Camron Finn and his wife, Chloe, Corey Finn and David O’Neil and his wife, Maria; his great-grandchildren, Layla Ann Krashan, Layth Joseph Krashan, Michaila Finn, and one on the way that he excitedly called his “nugget.” He also leaves behind his siblings, Christine Varrone, Michael Griffin and Thomas Griffin, along with several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, David O’Neil.
Family and friends are welcome to gather on Saturday, January 17 from 9 AM to 10 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. A service in celebration of John’s life will begin at 10 AM at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will follow at West Cemetery, Plainville. For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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