John S. Giffin

John S. Giffin of Brighton, MA formerly of Delray Beach, FL and Orono, ME died peacefully after a brief illness on March 23, 2023 at the age of 87.  John was born on August 27, 1935 in Worcester, MA, to Bert and Flora. He was a devoted father of his son Tom his wife Lauri, of Norwood, MA and his daughter, Gayle (Giffin) O’Connor of Dover, NH. He was a loving grandfather to Victoria and Ryan Giffin and Lauren O’Connor. He was pre-deceased by his second wife, Doreen (Lisbon) Giffin, and his sister, Jane Hale. 

John graduated from Camden High School in 1953. He served in the Marines for two years prior to attending Murray State where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree. He graduated from the University of Maine with a Master’s Degree in Education. He spent his entire career as an educator working in Bar Harbor, East Millinocket and Orono, Maine as Head of Physical Education and Athletic Director. John had a passion for coaching basketball and twice earned “State Coach of the Year” honors. He took great pride in guiding Orono High School to a State Championship in 1972. Following his coaching career he opened a restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine and later retired to Florida. While in Florida he stayed busy working part time at various points as a bartender, limo driver and ranger at a private golf course near his Delray Beach home. He was an avid golfer and played into his 80s. 

Visiting hours will be from 5:00 – 7:00PM, Prayer Service 7:00PM on Friday, March 31st at the Alexander Thomas and Sons Funeral home, 45 Common St., Walpole, MA. Interment will be private. 

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