The community of Talladega and the Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) is mourning the profound loss of coach Skip Griffies and his beloved wife, Jane Clark Griffies, who both passed away within hours of each other.
Their deaths mark the end of a remarkable journey filled with decades of service to education, athletics, and their community.
Skip Griffies Had A Legacy On Education And Coaching
Skip Griffies was a respected football coach at ASD and Talladega High School, known for his mentorship and dedication to student-athletes on and off the field.
His career in education was marked not only by strategy and discipline, but also by compassion and leadership that left a lasting mark on generations of young people.
He was a retired teacher from the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, having dedicated his life to inclusive education.
Skip was a proud graduate of Samford University (Class of 1967) and later earned a Master of Education from the University of Montevallo (Class of 1972).
His wife, Jane Griffies, was equally beloved as a longtime teacher at ASD.
Known for her gentle heart and dedication to her students, she taught many children in their early school years.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Family and friends confirmed the news of their passing in heartfelt social media posts. One family member wrote:
“Today at 8 PM, 22 hours after Papa, our Nana (Jane Griffies) passed away. Earlier this morning, when Judson Griffies was telling her who was waiting on her, she said ‘Ginger.’ I’m sure a huge hug was waiting on her from Skip Griffies & Ginger. Please pray for our family, especially my dad.”
Another loved one reflected on their loss with these words:
“Sad news! Please pray for the families of Clark and Griffies. They have had a decline in health for the past year. Alzheimer’s for Jane and multiple health issues for Skip… She was my sweet 1st grade teacher at ASD.”
The couple’s shared journey in life and in education touched countless lives as teachers, mentors, and community leaders.
Their bond, unwavering through the years, remained strong even in their final moments, as they departed this world within a day of each other.
As the family prepares for a joint graveside service in Talladega, loved ones, former students, and colleagues are preparing to pay tribute to two remarkable individuals.
Details of the service will be announced soon, allowing the community to gather and honor their memory.
Their memory will live on in the stories, lessons, and values they passed on to so many.
May Skip and Jane Griffies rest in eternal peace!
