James L. Griffin Jr., 76, of Bristol passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. The son of the late James L. Griffin Sr and Irene (Rooney) Griffin, he grew up in East Providence before settling in Bristol for the last 54 years.

James was a retired plumber with Plumber and Pipefitters Local Union #51 and was an active member in the Elks club, AMVETS, and was a 45-year member of Defiance Hose Co. No. 1, having joined Jan. 7, 1976. In 1979 he went on to become a Second Lieutenant and later went on to become the Captain of the Fire Police. James was also a lifelong member of the Rhode Island State Firemen’s League.

In his spare time, he enjoyed boating – powerboats, of course – playing cribbage, watching the New York Giants and the Red Sox. He would often catch the training games while wintering in Florida. But, most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends.

James is survived by his loving wife, Mary “Liz” Griffin of Bristol, his son, Henry Cabral and his wife Kendra of Bristol, his sister, Catherine McCarthy of Barrington, and his three grandchildren, Cassidy, Kennedy and Caden. He was the brother of the late William Griffin.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Beacon Hospice for their excellent care.

Arrangements are with Smith Funeral and Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren, where the family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2021, from 9 to 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be at 12 p.m. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 141 State St., Bristol. Burial will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bristol.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society, 931 Jefferson Blvd., Suite 3004, Warwick, RI 02886, or the Fireman’s Memorial and Welfare Committee, 4 Annawamscutt Drive, Bristol, R.I. For tributes, visit www.wjsmithfh.com.