09/27/2025
KABF Collage Radio Sept. 26 will be dedicated in its entirety in loving memory of Big Griff. Saturday, Sept. 27, noon - 3 pm. 88.3 FM in Central Arkansas or www.KABF.org.
ROBERT CHARLES GRIFFIN, SR., (Big Griff) age 73, a lifelong resident of Little Rock, Ark., passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, following a lengthy hospitalization. Born on February 4, 1952, to Riley Griffin and Mable Jones Griffin Shumate, Robert lived a life defined by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
He was married to the love of his life, Beverly Bell Griffin, for 54 years—a partnership built on faith, laughter, and unshakable commitment. Together, they raised a family rooted in love and resilience.
Robert worked for the Little Rock School District for over 20 years. His true passion, however, was radio. For more than 40 years, Big Griff volunteered as an on-air, larger-than-life personality at KABF 88.3 FM, where he hosted The Quiet Storm every Sunday morning. With his signature voice and soulful selections of jazz, love songs, and so much more, Griff became a cherished part of countless listeners’ weekends—bringing comfort, connection, and joy through the airwaves.
Griff was known for his weekly reminders, which became part of the rhythm of life for many: “It takes both the black and white keys on the piano to play the Star-Spangled Banner.” “I love you, and there’s not a damned thing you can do about it.” Even in the face of illness, his spirit remained unshaken. His daily mantra—“I will live until I die”— was a testament to his resilience, humor, and refusal to let his illness define him. His family became closer, and in those final months, love became the loudest frequency in his life.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly Bell Griffin; his children, Robert C. Griffin, Jr. and Kimberly Griffin Stimphil; sonin-law, Patrick Stimphil; bonus daughter, Jammie Harris; and cherished grandchildren, Robert C. Griffin III (Tres) and Milan Stimphil. Robert also embraced Lee Harris, Jaime Ray Harris, and Braxton Harris as grandchildren by heart, and was a father figure to an uncountable number of extended family members, offering guidance, support, and unconditional love to all. He always bragged about how proud he was of his “200 godchildren.”
Known for his generous spirit, gentle wisdom, and unwavering integrity, Robert’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he passed down.
A gathering of remembrance will be held on Saturday September 27, 2025, 12 p.m. at Gunn Funeral Home, 4323 West 29th, Little Rock, where family and friends will celebrate his life and honor the man who meant so much to so many. His family will strive to honor his wishes … 1. No funeral; 2. No sadness; 3. Remember the good by celebrating LIFE.
A musical celebration will be held on Monday, September 29, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Mosiac Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. 9th St. Little Rock.
Griff’s memory will be cherished, his stories retold, and his love carried forward by all who were blessed to know him.