Clarence Griffin
Clarence O’Neal Griffin, retired missionary to Indonesia, died October 11, 2019. He was 87.
Griffin and his wife Ruth were appointed as missionaries to Southeast Asia in December 1960. After a brief time in the Philippines, they moved to Indonesia where they served for more than 35 years.
Through the years, they witnessed many changes and transitions. In a newsletter written in 1964, they wrote, “We have experienced many additions this year—the addition of another organized church, the addition of a permanent building for one of our chapels, the addition of many new church members, and also the addition of another son to our family.” Indonesia became like home for the Griffins and their four sons: Dan, Phil, Ed and Tim.
Griffin faithfully built relationships, preached the gospel, trained new believers and started churches. He and Ruth wrote often of the beauty of the country, but especially the beauty of seeing Indonesians turn to Jesus and grow in their faith. They also frequently thanked churches for their giving to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering and Cooperative Program.
A native of South Carolina, Griffin was a graduate of Spartanburg High School, North Greenville Junior College (University), and Furman University. Having already surrendered to the call to preach, he continued in his studies at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He pastored in South Carolina before his years on the mission field.
After his retirement, he stayed active in ministry and missions, working with Indonesians in Atlanta, New York and San Francisco. He was an active member of Taylors First Baptist Church in South Carolina, where he taught Sunday School and led Bible studies.
Funeral services were held Saturday, October 19, in Greer, South Carolina. He is survived by Ruth, their four sons, and their families. The family requests that memorials be made to the Taylors First Baptist Church Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, 200 West Main Street, Taylors, South Carolina, 29687.
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