William C. "Bill" Griffith (80) of Effingham

William C. “Bill” Griffith, 80, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

A private memorial will be held at a later date. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Effingham County Humane Society, E.A.R.S., or the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

William was born in Shelbyville, IL, the son of the late Odie and Dorothy Griffith. He graduated from Arthur High School. He married Saralee Stevenson of Cooks Mills, IL, in 1959. They have one son, Stephen O. Griffith.

Bill will be remembered for his love of music and playing keyboard instruments all by ear. He was a master woodworker, creating and making beautiful woodworking pieces, including a 5-piece bedroom outfit to match an antique secretary wardrobe. He made items for other people, including the Bible stand for the Presbyterian Church.

Bill was also active in the community and was awarded the 1975 Outstanding Young Man of Effingham County award. In 1975, he was also awarded the Key to the City by Effingham Mayor Clyde Martin. He helped start the Effingham Toastmaster Club. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge. He loved being involved in the local theatre, F.A.C.E. and was in 26 local plays. Some of his favorite roles were Oscar in the Odd Couple, Teddy in Arsenic and Old Lace, Norman in On Golden Pond, and many others. Bill was with Samuel Music Company for 26 years and Roberts Office City prior to his retirement

Bill is survived by his wife, Saralee Griffith of Effingham; and son, Steve Griffith of Effingham.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Portia Becker and her husband Dave; and his wife’s parents, Helen and Steve Stevenson of Cooks Mills.