Davis Griffith-Cox

Davis Griffith-Cox, scion of a family who came to Texas before the days of the Republic, passed away on March 24, 2023. Davis was born July 24, 1941, a fifth generation Texan who grew up at Griffith Homeplace with family stories of famous pioneer citizens of Texas told as often as if they were the neighbors next door. Among the many notable ancestors in Davis’ family, was a Great-Great-Grandfather who was a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. His Great-Grandfather, Dr. Griffith, was a close friend of Sam Houston, who was his first patient upon the Griffith’s arrival in Texas. Davis spoke of himself as just an “ole country boy from East Texas”, but Professor Griffith-Cox traveled the world, both living and studying abroad for several years. He dined with Governors, the President of the United States, and the Queen of England, at their personal invitation. He also, at times, served as a personal consultant, and was the house guest, of several movie stars. Davis served as professor and division chairman at many universities, teaching painting, sculpture (he had degrees in both), anatomy, architectural design, and as head of an art school. He was a restoration specialist, historian, and public speaker, and authored three books. Having served on several boards of directors, he was also the founder, president, and CEO of Griffith Homeplace Museum and curator of The Historic Griffith Collection, encompassing the many historical and ancestral heirlooms, artifacts and other treasured objets d’ art. Davis was also a long-time member of Our Merciful Saviour Episcopal Church in Kaufman. Davis is survived by two sons, Lawrence and Jefferson, as well as other extended family members, countless friends, students, colleagues and organizations that will continue to honor his many insightful and invaluable contributions to historical archives. O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our brother, Davis. We thank you for giving him to us, his friends, to know and to love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A Celebration of his life will be at 11:00am, Wednesday, April 26th, 2023, at Our Merciful Savior Episcopal Church, 500 S. Jackson, Kaufman, TX, 75142. A private committal service was held and Davis was laid to rest at the historic Griffith family area of Oakland Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Griffith Home Place Museum, 803 First Street Terrell, TX 75160.

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Davis Griffith-Cox

July 24, 1941 - March 24, 2023