HAMPSTEAD — Jack Deshea Griffith, Ph.D., 85, died peacefully Saturday, March 13, 2021, at his home. Jack was born in Seminole, Oklahoma, and eventually retired in Hampstead.
He was the loving husband of 52 years to Mary Kathryn “Kitty” Griffith of Hampstead.
Jack graduated from Oklahoma University with a Ph.D. in Epidemiology and Public Health. Jack had a distinguished career being employed by the CDC, Word Health Organization, EPA, National Cancer Institute, National Center for Health Services R&D, University of Miami School of Medicine, Public Health Services and finally retiring from the Pender County Health Department as its health director for 14 years.
Jack authored several textbooks and multiple journal articles and received multiple Sustained Superior Performance awards. During his employment in Pender County, he was responsible for starting the first mobile dental clinic for school children and started the hurricane evacuation shelters in Pender County.
Jack is survived by his wife, Kitty Griffith of Hampstead; daughter, Jacqueline T. Sabella of Hampstead; and grandson, Jack Ryan Griffith of Hampstead.
Private memorial services and internment will be held at Topsail Presbyterian Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Topsail Presbyterian Church, 16249 US Hwy 17, Hampstead, NC 28443; or Pender County Animal Shelter, 3280 New Savannah Road, Burgaw, NC 28425.
Share online condolences with the family at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.
