On Tuesday, July 7, 2020, William Jewell Griffey II, “Bill”, loving husband and father, passed away at age 82 in his home surrounded by family and loved ones.
Bill was born on May 6, 1938 in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, to Higdon Griffey and Vivian (Spencer) Griffey. He graduated from Excelsior Springs High School and William Jewell College with a degree in Business. He was the owner of Griffey Insurance Agency of Excelsior Springs, which was established in 1921 by his grandfather and father before him. He was crucial to the success of the family business for 59 ½ years. He married Lola B. (Brasfield) Griffey on October 2, 1975, and together they raised two sons and three daughters.
Bill had many interests, including playing golf, tennis, and basketball in his younger years. He was an avid sports fan. He and Lola were passionate world travelers, and enjoyed many different countries and cultures. He was also very interested in the history of the world. He was well known and loved within his community.
Bill was involved in the community of Excelsior Springs and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Excelsior Springs. He was a member of the Agents Advisory Council of Northwestern National Insurance Company, a secretary and treasurer for the Masonic Cemetery for 30 years, a former Optimist Club member, a member of the Elks Club, president of the Excelsior Springs Shrine Club, chairmen of the United Fund campaign, a board member of the Excelsior Springs Educational Committee, a member of the Maurer Foundation, and he and Lola were instrumental in raising money to build the new First United Methodist Church of Excelsior Springs.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, Higdon, and his mother Vivian.
He is survived by his wife, Lola; his siblings, Richard Griffey and Vicki (Griffey) Schneider; his children, William J. Griffey III (Staci), Jewelya B. Griffey, LuGene Faye Dilday (Bart), Dr. D. Craig Barnett (Sandy), and Stephane Dees (Eddie); his grandchildren, Candice Michaelson (Jonathan), Chad Dees (Erica), Dr. Joshua Dilday (Danielle), Bricana Dees, Chris Doerrer, William J. Griffey IV, Mason Griffey, Adam Schiffman, and Elijah Dilday; and his great grandchildren, Maitland, Savannah, Leighton, Carr, Calem, Aviyah, and Ryker.
The family is holding a celebration of life for Bill at a later date.
Our Sincere Condolences
I’m very saddened by the passing of Griffey. Nick introduced me to Bill 40ish years ago. I sold insurance and he brokered some business for me. Although I only saw him two or three times a year, each time was like it was every week. We always had deep discussions about whatever and lots of laughs which usually centered around Nick. They were very close. He will truly be missed by everyone on the trips. He is in my thoughts as well as your whole family.
Sincerely
Scott Houk
I saw the obituary in today’s KC Star. I remember Higdon and Vivian well. I am Vern Alder’s daughter. My prayers are with all of you. Blessings, Helen Alder
I just learned of Bill’s passing and to the family — I share in your grief. I have know the Griffey family since I was a child — our families lived on the same street in Excelsior Springs and my family and the Griffey family were close friends. Please know Lola, Dick, Vicki and the entire Griffey Family you are in my thoughts and my heart — If I can help in anyway — please let me know — love you all.
Jay Ann Anderson Pulis
I’m sorry to hear the passing of Bill. He was truly a good guy, always had a smile and handshake when you met him. My deepest sympathies to the family.
James Craven
We are very sorry for your loss. I will always be thankful for Bill standing up for what was the best for teachers in the district. I feel that the insurance committee accomplished much good when working together. It was this honesty that made the Griffey Agency our own insurance carrier. He will be missed greatly by those of the community and those lucky enough to considered him a friend.
Ron and Jill Huettenmueller
Bill was such a likable, nice guy. I knew him thru his wife Lola, who I worked with. Each time I saw him we were laughing about something. He will be missed. Prayers going out to Lola and the family.
Claudia Harris
This may be late, I just found out. My condolences to all.
Louie W Griffey
