Edward "Ed" Cantor Griffin

Edward (Ed) Cantor Griffin, age 93, passed away peacefully with his daughter at his side at Mercy Hospital on Saturday evening, September 19, 2026.

He was born on May 8, 1933, in Henrietta, Oklahoma, to Guy and Buleah Griffin. He was one of seven children, with three older brothers, one older sister, and two younger brothers. When Ed was seven years old, his family moved to California, where he spent his young adult life.

At age 19, after graduating from high school, Ed began working for McDonnell Douglas in Long Beach, California. He was introduced to Mr. McDonnell, who took Ed under his wing and became an important mentor in his career.

Ed took a break from his career and proudly served on active duty in the United States Army from 1953 to 1956 during the Korean War era. He attained the rank of corporal and served as a squad leader with Company F of the 18th Regiment while stationed in Germany. After completing his active-duty service in 1956, Ed returned to California and went back to work at McDonnell Douglas. Ed remained in the Army Reserve until 1961.

Ed’s love story began during a fishing trip to Missouri with his close friend while visiting the Branson area. He was introduced to a fishing acquaintance sister, Trecia Hitchcock. The two connected immediately, despite the distance between California and Missouri. Their relationship grew through letters, and in 1963, Ed sent Trecia an engagement ring with a letter asking her to marry him. She said yes and later moved to California, where she stayed with Ed’s brother and sister-in-law until their wedding.

Ed and Trecia were married on March 27, 1964. Together, they built a loving home and family and were blessed with two daughters, Sharon and Cathy. Ed loved his family dearly and had a special place in his heart for children. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy.

In 1976, Ed and Trecia moved their family from Buena Park, California, to Ozark, Missouri, to help care for Trecia’s mother during her illness. Ed remained committed to McDonnell Douglas and transferred from Long Beach to the Tulsa plant , where he was a sheet metal specialist and served in a management role.

After Trecia’s mother passed away, the family remained in Ozark. Their daughters eventually adapted to rural life, and the family made its home in the Ozarks.

Ed retired from McDonnell Douglas in 1988. He then joined the team Executive Coach Limousines in Springfield in the sheet-metal department. There, he managed several younger employees whom he affectionately called his “pups.” He maintained relationships with many of them throughout the years. Following that position, he and Trecia moved to Aurora Colorado briefly to work with Stanley Aviation. He finally retired for good in 1992 and moved back to Ozark MO.

Ed enjoyed being outdoors. He loved to fish and garden, and he was a skilled craftsman and woodworker. He always had a project going. He built beautiful furniture and cabinets and enjoyed all things related to woodworking.

His favorite job was becoming a grandparent. He finally had time to do all the things he loved with the kids. He loved to spend time with them. He would take them to fish, hunt, go camping even in the front yard. He would do woodworking projects, and garden. Being involved in their lives was one of his greatest joys. He was a wonderful Papa.

Ed loved to teach and lead by example. He was kind, patient, consistent, and encouraging, always reminding others to do their very best in everything they did. His guidance, generosity, and willingness to mentor others left a lasting impression on the many people whose lives he touched.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Trecia, in 2016; his daughter, Cathy Griffin, in 2023; and his granddaughter, Amber Baughman, in April of this year. He was also preceded in death by his parents Guy and Buleah Griffin, four brothers and spouses: Tom (Gin) Griffin, Jim (Clarice)Griffin, Bill (Vera) Griffin, O’Dean (Deanna) Griffin, one sister Dorothy (Cliff) Weis and several dearly loved nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his daughter and “sidekick,” Sharon, and her husband, Mike; grandchildren Zackary Combs, Jordan Morgan, Jacob Morgan, and Michaela Brown and her husband, Tony; great-grandchildren Colton Rocco and Kynslee Herrera; and his brother and sister in law; Bob (Linda) Griffin and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Ed will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his service to his country, his generous spirit, and his willingness to teach and encourage others. His presence will be deeply missed, but his stories, love, and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

Services are scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Adams Funeral Home in Ozark. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Phillip Wright officiating. 

Burial will be Selmore Cemetery in Ozark.

In lieu of flowers, there are two local charities that assist disabled veterans and children, both of which Ed had a special place in his heart for: 

Diversified Freedom for Disabilities:  This is for adaptive equipment and Special Event programs 

"Fishing Dreams" -  to help our veterans and children get more involved - 

DFD/Fish Tales, JP Sell, P.O. Box 297, Rogersville MO 65742

Anglers for Life: for Children and veterans with special needs with certain expenses to those severely sick to travel for treatment or to try and help with unforeseen expenses.

https://anglersforlife