House Resolution 46

A RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF RETIRED MISSISSIPPI STATE TROOPER MICHAEL ELAINE "MIKE" GRIFFIN WHO LOST HIS LIFE WHILE SELFLESSLY HELPING HIS FELLOWMAN DURING A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.

WHEREAS, unexpectedly on September 4, 2023, retired Mississippi State Trooper Michael Elaine "Mike" Griffin unexpectedly passed away after sustaining injuries from a selfless act of kindness assisting his fellowman during a vehicle accident in Batesville; and

WHEREAS, born July 13, 1961, in Ripley, he was the son of the late Sylvesta Elaine and Martha Criswell Griffin; and

WHEREAS, a 1979 graduate of Ripley High School, he continued his education at Northeast Mississippi Community College to become an electrician, but driven by his passion to serve, Mike changed courses and enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1980, and proudly served his country in the military as a Rifleman and Remote Sensor Specialist until 1986; and

WHEREAS, his spirit for adventure and service to his community led to his training and responsibilities as a Mississippi State Trooper in 1987, and on June 2, 1990, Mike married his beloved wife, the former Edna Huddleston of Falkner; and

WHEREAS, after 34 years of proudly and faithfully serving the State of Mississippi, Mike retired and was assigned as a Government Affairs Liaison; and

WHEREAS, throughout each of his endeavors, he always strived to improve himself and contribute positively to the lives of his colleagues leading with exceptional friendliness and kindness which left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to know him; and

WHEREAS, a faithful and active member of the Church of Christ, Mike served as an Elder and Deacon for many years and was also an active member of the Lion's Club; and

WHEREAS, he was also a passionate Ole Miss and Dallas Cowboy football fan, who enjoyed dining out with family and friends, tending to his yard and loving his wife and daughter; and

WHEREAS, as evidenced by his last act on earth, Mike was a man of immense character and kindness, a pillar of his church and community and beloved by all who knew him and now to those who did not but heard of his heroic act; and

WHEREAS, to cherish his memory, he leaves his wife of 33 years, his daughter, Olivia, one brother, Ricky, two half-sisters, Diane and Nina, his father-in-law, Wade, sisters-in-law, Linda and Laura, and a host of nieces, nephews and his canine companions "Jake" and feline friend, "Belle"; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we honor the life and service of retired Mississippi State Trooper Michael Elaine "Mike" Griffin who lost his life while selflessly helping his fellowman during a vehicle accident, and express deepest sympathy upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mrs. Edna Griffin and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.