In August, a serious multi-vehicle crash claimed the life of James Griffin, a 61-year-old resident of Providence. The wife of the deceased remembers him as a generous man who always harbored pure intentions and lived each day to the fullest.
Michala Hilario-Griffin, who was in the car with her 5-year-old daughter and their puppy, recounted the tragic incident, saying, “Before I knew it, the guy merged right into our lane.” Thankfully, Michala, her daughter, and the puppy survived the crash, but Griffin succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Despite his life being cut short, his wife emphasized that he led a busy and eventful life, describing it as “a crazy epic life.” Griffin served as a Rhode Island State Trooper for 17 years, working in various units including patrol, motorcycle, and K-9, before retiring in 1996.
He later joined Blackwater International Private Military firm as part of the security team responsible for safeguarding a U.S. ambassador. Following this, he provided personal security to the Royal Family of Saudi Arabia for seven years. Griffin then embarked on his own venture, establishing a private security company that offered protection to numerous high-profile individuals, including acclaimed Hip Hop, R&B, and rap artists such as Jay Z, Beyoncé, and Drake.
Additionally, Griffin served as a board member at the Thomas C. Slater Compassion Center, Rhode Island’s first medical cannabis dispensary. Michala expressed that his legacy will endure indefinitely.
