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Portrait of James Robert “Bert” Griggs III
Bert Griggs

James Robert “Bert” Griggs III

December 10, 1981 – December 17, 2019
Lived 38 years
Bethlehem United Methodist Church Cemetery · Hartsville, SC
Love is everywhere.
Life story

Born on December 10, 1982, Bert grew up in the close-knit Byrdtown community in Hartsville, SC, where he cherished his rural upbringing surrounded by a large family and lifelong friends. He enjoyed country living, spending time riding tractors and four-wheelers, engaging in playful mischief, and embarking on countless family camping adventures. During his time at Hartsville High School, Bert excelled in soccer and found joy in entertaining at the pond house.

After high school, Bert pursued higher education at the College of Charleston, graduating with a B.S. in Business Administration. He remained in Charleston for four years, immersing himself in various roles within the hospitality industry and nurturing enduring friendships.

Feeling the pull of the mountains, Bert journeyed to Jackson Hole to pursue his passion for snowboarding. There, he served as the sales and marketing director for a hotel group, affording him the opportunity to travel to premier ski resorts across the country as an ambassador for Jackson Hole.

It was in Jackson Hole that Bert met Lorrie, his future wife, who shared his love for live music and had a wide circle of mutual friends. After a whirlwind romance, they married on April Fools’ Day. Together, they founded Drifter Merch, an apparel company inspired by their mutual love of music.

Following their adventurous escapades, Bert and Lorrie returned to Charleston and a year later, they welcomed their daughter, Harper Grace, into the world. Bert embraced his roles as a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend, endearing himself to those around him with his innate ability to bring joy to everyone he encountered. Known for his welcoming nature, Bert never met a stranger, effortlessly connecting with others and becoming everyone's closest confidant.

His gentle spirit and deep capacity for love endeared him to many, as he approached relationships with an open heart and an unwavering commitment. Bert's distinct sense of humor, accompanied by an infectious laugh and a radiant smile, had the power to illuminate even the most somber of spaces. His absence will be keenly felt, leaving an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who were touched by his warmth and kindness.

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Lifetime

The world James knew

Family milestones in gold, history for context

1981
Born December 10
1989
James was 8 when "The Simpsons" debuted as a series
1995
James was 14 when "Toy Story" became the first fully computer-animated film
1998
James was 17 when Google was founded
2001
James was 20 when Apple introduced the iPod
2004
James was 23 when Facebook was launched
2019
Passed away December 17, age 38
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Bethlehem United Methodist Church Cemetery
Hartsville, SC
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