Griggs L. Hampton

Mr. Griggs L. Hampton, of Mount Airy, died Wednesday, December 21, 2011, at Golden Living Center in Mount Airy. He was born March 14, 1949, in Mount Airy and was a lifelong resident. He loved his hometown and spent his time with worthy causes and interests useful to his town and the wider world. Griggs sustained brain injury at birth that left him with some handicaps. Even so, he graduated from Mount Airy High School. He worked with his father, Porter Hampton, at the family business, Triangle Dry Cleaners, until he was 23 when Porter's untimely death occurred. He spent the rest of his life continuing activities begun with his father. This included his great interest and knowledge of all sports and attendance at practically every Mount Airy Bears game. The March of Dimes was their special charity. With the generosity of Mount Airy citizens, he collected thousands of dollars for this and the American Cancer Society "Relay For Life" year after year. He received many state and national awards from both charities. Always an ambassador for Mount Airy, he was given the honor of being a "Hometown Hero." He regularly attended monthly town hall meetings, always interested in knowing what was happening in his town. Collecting used golf balls was a hobby. Who could forget these being sold in egg cartons at the Blue Bird Café! Griggs had many interests through life, always striving to do his best and what was right. Having no enemies and many friends, we salute you, Griggs, for a life well lived and time well spent. The citizens of Mount Airy, your charities, friends, and family will always remember and miss you. Griggs is survived by cousins, Gail L. Miller and her husband, Dan, Ann L. Dunnam and her husband, Doug, and their children, Brad and Robert Miller and wives, Kelly and Gina, and Sarah and Lynn Dunnam. The service celebrating Griggs' life will be Wednesday, December 28, 2011, at 2:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy. The family will receive friends Wednesday from noon until 1:30 PM at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Oakdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Griggs L. Hampton Memorial Fund - March of Dimes and/or Relay For Life, Surrey Bank and Trust, 145 North Renfro Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030. Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.