James McGriff, 86, passed away on his birthday, May 20, 2016, at Dept. of Veteran Affairs, Hospice Unit, in Fort Meade with his wife at his side after a long battle of cancer. Jim was born on May 20, 1930, in DeSmet, SD, to Fred McGriff and Stella Clemmons McGriff. He was one of nine children.Jim met the love of his life, Mary Cornick, and they married in 1950. In 1951, Jim left for basic training to Alabama and then on to Korea, where he was a forward observer. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Rapid City in 1953, where he worked 17 years at Buckingham Transportation. Then he worked for Barber Transportation and Consolidated Freightways until he had to retire after his third bout of cancer. He was then cancer free until seven years ago when prostate cancer returned.Jim is survived by his wife, Mary McGriff, who deeply misses him; and two sons, Jim McGriff of Rapid City, and Tim McGriff and wife Kim of New Underwood. Also a special person that came into their lives 45 years ago who has been like a son, Dwayne Brimm and his wife Dawn of eight years. Jim is also survived by a sister, Virginia Grife; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Jim’s passing is our loss and the Lord’s gain. He will be truly missed by all. His wife and family want to thank everyone at the VA Hospice in Fort Meade for all the good care given to Jim.