Rufus McAlister Griffin

Rufus McAlister Griffin quietly slipped into eternal rest on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Sentara Careplex. He was born on May 4, 1959, the seventh child born to the late Blanche Robinson and Alonzo K. Griffin in Phoebus, Virginia. 

Rufus was educated by Hampton City Schools and served in the United States Army until he was honorably discharged. He began his career as a skilled painter and later became a successful entrepreneur. Rufus was a devoted Christian, who was deeply committed to his walk with the LORD. He was a member of the Greater Bethlehem Christian Assembly. Rufus loved music and always had a song in his heart, he had an exceptional singing voice.  

Rufus touched so many lives in his journey of life by spreading love, joy, positivity, and passion. He was a man of awesome character who had endless potential and was not done leaving his impression on the world, he had a testimony. His laugh was infectious, and his humorous view of life was contagious; he lit up the room with his radiant smile, laughter, and expressive cliché’s. Spending time with family and friends was everything to Rufus, no matter how busy life got, he always paused to enjoy every opportunity. Rufus had a very special place in his heart for his nieces, and he showed that love through his actions, each one of his nieces was displayed in his home. Rufus had an indescribable bond with his nieces Tiya and Tiffany, and his nephew Kellis. 

He is proceeded in death by his by his father Alonzo K. Griffin, his mother Blanche Robinson, two brother’s Blanchard“Butchie” Robinson and Willie “Roy” Robinson, Sr, and one sister Alice Dowdell. He leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life, three brother’s Louis Robinson (Charmine), Michael Griffin (Angela), Everett Griffin, three sisters, EthelHodges, Juila Sethman (Ted), and Patrice Jackson (Billy); a sister-law, Helen Robinson aka “Jo-Jo”; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and his former wife and special friend, Hazel Griffin.

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