Label
Councilwoman Williams
Title
Memorializing the life of William Griffin and renaming the boxing gym at Rev. HV Savage Park to be the William Griffin Boxing Gym.
Summary
WHEREAS, William Griffin, a life-long resident of Toledo who was born on September 22, 1937 to Oscar and Mattie Griffin, and passed on March 14, 2023. Known affectionately as Coach Griff because of his commitment and dedication to coaching the youth of Toledo in the fine arts of boxing and life; and
WHEREAS, Bill graduated from McComber Vocational High School in 1954, then immediately enlisted in the Air Force and served active duty during the Korean War. Upon his return home, Bill was one of the first African American members of the local carpenter's union, working successfully in construction for 25 years. He went on to work for the City of Toledo as a Rehab Inspector for the Department of Neighborhoods for 28 years, retiring in the year 2000; and
WHEREAS, Bill was a boxer himself back in the day who, along with his brother Buster, ran the Soul City Boxing Gym. When he had to hang up his own "golden gloves", Bill devoted over 60 years to coaching individuals who went on to become some of the greatest boxers in the world, including IBF super-middleweight world champion Lindell Holmes, the legendary Tommy Hearns, and Toledo's current champion Albert "Prince" Bell. Bill also coached Team USA when they competed against Cuba; and
WHEREAS, Bill not only coached, but he oversaw the regular operation of the Reverend HV Savage Park and was a fixture in the neighborhood. He commanded a high level of respect from generations of community youth that visited the park, or crossed the threshold of the gym. Bill always instilled a sense of responsibility in the youth whose lives he touched, setting a strong example of character and integrity. His heart was always with the kids, especially for those who didn't have a father figure. He often reached into his own pocket and ...
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