Griffin Garcia Haygood

Born in Englewood, N.J. to the late Samuel Griffin Haygood and the late Annie Pearl Jefferies Haygood. Griffin Garcia Haygood is survived by brother Samuel J. Haygood; sisters Murriell Saunders, Andrea Lloyd, and Pamela Samuel (Edward Samuel.); cousin Velma Richardson (Bobbie Richardson); nephews DeMorio Williams and Irvin Lloyd ; three great nephews Jadon Williams, Cedric Jones and Dallas Williams; niece Andrea (Laurie) Loyd and great niece L'Oreal Jones and a host of many relatives and friends.At the early age of 14, Griffin taught himself to play classical music and became exceptionally proficient at it, demonstrating extraordinary talent in classical music composed by Mozart, Beethoven, Handel and Bach. Griffin was also a talented trumpet player and played trumpet on the Bennettsville High School Marching Band graduating from Bennettsville High School in Bennettsville. S.C. in 1968. After high school he furthered his studies in music at Claflin College in Orangeburg, S.C. joined the U.S. Army. He was a graduate of the U.S. Army Element School of Music and was a trumpeter in the 282d Army Band at Fort Jackson, S.C. during the height of the Vietnam Conflict. He provided great comfort to many families as he served and played "TAPS" during interment ceremonies. Griffin composed many musical compositions including two Symphonies, Sacred Choruses, and completed a Piano Concerto for his Orchestral debut, "Hold Me.' In his native town of Bennettsville and surrounding areas, Griffin played Pomp & Circumstance for numerous high school graduating classes and served as the minister of music for Shiloh Baptist Church in Bennettsville, S.C. He was often called upon to play piano for weddings, social events, and local bands and was selected by Fox Music House of North Charleston. S.C. to play piano for various events. In 2000, Griffin created and composed the music for his Hit Musical Stage Play, "Hold Me" premiered at the Morton Theatre, Athens, GA that same year. He was the ultimate "maestro" and in 2004, Griffin was selected to play Christmas carols at various Metro Atlanta Malls to entertain shoppers. Griffin was also a hit at family gatherings as well. Holidays were extra special as he played show tunes and carols while the family sang along.Griffin Garcia Haygood, loving brother, uncle, talented and accomplished musician, Army veteran and friend to many will be remembered fondly in the hearts of those that he "touched." Rest in peace. We will miss you.