Robert Taylor Griffin, a former basketball and softball coach, passed away at the age of 70 on Sunday, August 24, 2025.
He married the love of his life, Gayla Nauman, and enjoyed over 50 years of marriage alongside their daughter, Natalie.
Robert Taylor Griffin was a dedicated farmer, community leader, and public servant who left a lasting mark on Independence County.
He was a row crop farmer and cattle producer for many years. Later, he operated the Griffin Seed and Grain Company.
His commitment extended far beyond his business. He devoted countless hours to coaching local children in peewee basketball, summer softball, and high school softball, mentoring young athletes.
Griffin was driven by a passion for improving education and served three terms on the Newark/Cedar Ridge School Board.
His desire to serve his community led him to run for Independence County Judge. He was elected to five consecutive terms, serving for twelve years.
During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to foster the county’s growth and prosperity.
Robert Taylor Griffin’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
Robert Taylor, the son of Frank and Lavada (Crawford) Griffin, was born on August 29, 1954, in Newport. He grew up with his brother, Frankie Griffin, and sister, Anne Moore.
His parents and brother preceded him in death.
Robert Taylor Griffin was a man known for his deep love of family, his sense of humor, and his steadfast faith. He passed away peacefully at 70, surrounded by his loved ones, on August 24, 2025.
Griffin found joy in the classic pastimes of his home state. He loved a good game of Texas Hold’em and found peace and purpose in the quiet of the hunting grounds.
Above all else, he was a family man. His most incredible pride and joy was his wife of 50 years, Gayla, with whom he built a beautiful life and legacy.
They married on May 2, 1975, and worked side by side to build a beautiful life.
Griffin was a devoted father and grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his family. His love and guidance created a foundation that will endure for generations.
His loving wife, Gayla; daughter, Natalie Allison Davenport, and her husband, Cale; and grandson, Townes, survive him. Similarly, he shared a close bond with his sister, Anne Moore, and husband, Jack.
Griffin was also close with his mother-in-law, Billie Miller, and husband, Stanley; brother-in-law, Fred Nauman, and wife, Debbie; and sister-in-law, Sarah Luther, and husband, Rodney.
He loved his nieces and nephews, Angele Sinele, Frankie M. Griffin, Bradley Griffin, Rodney Griffin, David Moore, Joel Moore, and Jon Moore.
The Griffin family announced the funeral services for 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Maple Springs Baptist Church, with Bro. Bill Goodwin officiating. After that, the burial will take place in Newark’s Blue Springs Cemetery.
Moreover, the family held the visitation on Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. until service time at Maple Springs Baptist Church.
David Moore, Joel Moore, Rodney Griffin, Brad Griffin, Frankie Griffin, Cale Davenport, Tyler Batson, and Shawn Sinele are honored to serve as pallbearers. Likewise, Independence County Road Department employees will serve as Honorary Pallbearers.
The Griffin family extends special thanks to Dr. Eugene Kwon and Mayo Clinic staff in Rochester, Minnesota, for their compassionate care.
Instead of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD, 21741, or online at donate.cancer.org.
Jackson’s Newark Funeral Home made the final arrangements.
Rest In Peace, Robert Taylor Griffin
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Robert Taylor Griffin graduated from Newark High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Lyon College in Batesville.
- He was a devoted and active member of the Newark First Baptist Church.
