Patsy Smith Griffis of Jacksonville, Florida, was called home to be with Jesus on Friday, April 10, 2026. Born on March 30, 1941, in Jacksonville to Albert G. Smith and Jane Geneva Smith, she was raised there and built a life rooted in hard work, deep faith, and a whole lot of personality. 
Mrs. Griffis began her career as an insurance agent and went on to own her own insurance company for most of her life. After moving to Lebanon, Tennessee, she also worked as an assistant librarian and coached volleyball and cheerleading, reflecting her leadership and her love for investing in others. 
Her faith was not just something she spoke about, it was how she lived. Mrs. Griffis served in Girl Scouts, as a Sunday school teacher, youth leader, and senior adult ministry leader, and was actively involved in SouthWest Area Resort Ministries (SWARM) in the mountains of North Carolina. She was known by many as a devoted prayer warrior who showed up for others with consistency and care. 
If you knew her, you knew she was not all serious. Patsy was sassy, quick-witted, and loved to laugh. She enjoyed spontaneous outings, traveling, sharing stories, and never passed up a good shopping trip. Patsy also had a deep love for gardening, something anyone could see in her overflowing garden and the plants she carefully tended over the years. 
She is survived by her husband, Marion “Buddy” Griffis, two daughters, one son-in-law, four grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and two sisters. 
A service to celebrate Patsy’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Maxville with Pastor Steven Gunter officiating. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Fellowship will follow the service. 
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to "Georgia Campers on Mission" to support the ministry work that Patsy held dear. Please mail donations c/o: Laura Parks, 207 Lakeview Drive, Stockbridge, GA 30281. 
Patsy will be laid to rest at Jacksonville National Cemetery. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. 
Arrangements entrusted to the dedicated care of BLACKBURN-CURRY FUNERAL AND CREMATION, 380 N. Lowder Street, Macclenny, Florida 32063. (904) 259-2806.