07/22/2025
🎉 Celebrating 100 Remarkable Years 🎉
In honor of one of our beloved residents turning 100 years old today, we wanted to take the time to reflect and celebrate his extraordinary life!
Meet Richard “Dick” Lapsley Griffin, born on July 22, 1925. Dick grew up in the serene city of Asheville, North Carolina, between the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. He spent most of his childhood enjoying the pristine Grove Park Inn golf course. As the youngest of three siblings—lovingly nicknamed “Babe” by his brother and sister—he developed a strong sense of family and service early on.
At just 17 years old, Dick enlisted in the U.S. Navy the day after his high school graduation, bravely serving aboard the USS Oberon during WWII. His service took him across the globe to the Philippines, Northern Africa, Okinawa, Normandy, and Japan. He wasn’t alone—his brother Bill and sister Aylett also proudly served during the war.
After his naval service, Dick pursued higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a business degree, a law degree, and several other advanced degrees including economics with a focus on taxation. His dedication to public service continued as he joined the U.S. Air Force, serving nine years as a JAG (Judge Advocate).
During his Air Force tenure, Dick met the love of his life, Alice. The two married within six months and went on to raise four children. Today, he finds great joy in the love of his children and 10 grandchildren.
Dick’s career also included serving as Assistant Attorney General for the State of North Carolina, even arguing a case before the U.S. Supreme Court. His legacy of honor and service is also etched into the community as a co-founder of the Western North Carolina Veterans Memorial in downtown Asheville—a lasting tribute to all who served.
We are deeply honored to know Mr. Griffin and to celebrate a life so rich in service, wisdom, and love!
Please join us in wishing him a heartfelt Happy 100th Birthday! 🎂🇺🇸
