Robert Alan Griffin—better known to everyone as “Big Al”—officially called it quits on April 18, 2026, at the age of 73.

His story started at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, on July 14, 1952, born to Robert Branton Griffin and Betty Juanita Tipton. After serving his country in the U.S. Army, Al eventually settled into a retirement style that was uniquely his own. He spent his days hanging out at Waffle House, where he was a regular fixture, making friends and likely keeping the staff on their toes.

Al was a man of simple, stubborn habits. He put away a pack of Pall Malls and about twelve Cokes a day, and he didn't see much point in changing for anyone. As far as he was concerned, the only football worth watching was Alabama—and you could usually count on him for a loud “Roll Tide” at the right (or wrong) moment.

He leaves behind a big crew to carry on his legacy: his son, Robert “Buddy” Griffin (Whitney); and his daughters, Nita Rose Gilliam (James), Laura Wilkins Wright (Josh), Shannon Faith Gunter (Cory), and Melissa Dawn Kosiba (Jacob).

He is also survived by his sister, Angel, and his brothers, Mark and Steve. Aunt Annie Wilma Wayne Grandkids Brittney, Little Man, Caleb, Brian, Chase, Blane, Makayla, Nadalie, Abbigayle, Jayce, Ava, Jaxton, Presley, Eva, Jameson, and Jag. He also leaves behind 12 great-grandchildren who will grow up hearing stories about him.

Waiting for him on the other side are his parents, Robert and Betty, and his brother, Gary.

Celebration of Life: We’re getting together to remember Big Al on April 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Berryhill Funeral Home.