Griggs Family Genealogy & History

Wiley Lee Griggs III, also known as "Diamond Jim," was a prominent American Negro league infielder during the 1940s and 1950s. Born on March 24, 1925, in Union Springs, Alabama, Griggs showcased his baseball prowess with the Birmingham Black Barons, contributing to their 1948 Negro World Series appearance. A talented player, he gained further recognition in 1951 when he represented the Houston Eagles in the East–West All-Star Game, cementing his legacy in Negro league baseball history. Griggs's athletic journey is celebrated for its significance during a pivotal era in American sports.

Wiley Griggs was the brother of Acie Griggs, another Negro league player, highlighting a familial connection within the baseball community. He passed away in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1996 at the age of 71.

Johanna Leigh Griggs, born on 17 October 1973, is a prominent Australian television presenter and former competitive swimmer known for her remarkable career. Griggs garnered attention by winning a bronze medal in the 100m backstroke at the 1990 Commonwealth Games. Transitioning from sports, she became a celebrated media personality, joining the Seven Network in 1993. Griggs has hosted significant events such as the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and the Australian Open. She was the first Australian woman to solely host an Olympic coverage during the 2002 Winter Olympics. She has been the face of popular shows like Better Homes and Gardens and House Rules, marking her influence in lifestyle television.

Robyn Griggs was an accomplished American actress known for her dynamic presence in musical theatre, television, and film. Born on April 30, 1973, in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, she began her career as a child actor, notably hosting Nickelodeon's Rated K and playing Molly in Annie. Griggs gained fame for her roles in the soap operas One Life to Live, portraying Stephanie Hobart, and Another World as Maggie Cory. She earned a nomination at the 14th Youth in Film Awards for Best Young Actress in a Daytime Series. After a brief hiatus from television, she returned to the screen in 2003, focusing on independent horror films such as Zombiegeddon. Griggs passed away on August 13, 2022, from stage IV cervical cancer.

Andrew Tyler Griggs, better known as Andy Griggs, is an acclaimed American country music artist known for his soulful hits. With three albums under RCA Records Nashville, including "You Won't Ever Be Lonely" and "Freedom," Griggs achieved remarkable success with six Top Ten singles on the Billboard country chart. Notable tracks like "You Won't Ever Be Lonely" and "She's More" peaked at number 2. His collaboration with Waylon Jennings on "Shine On Me" further highlights his career. Later, Griggs joined Montage Music Group, releasing "The Good Life." His contributions to country music, including guest vocals on Tracy Byrd's "The Truth About Men," solidify his legacy in the industry.

Born in West Monroe, Louisiana, Andy Griggs faced early personal challenges. After the death of his father, Darrell, when Andy was just 10, his brother Mason stepped into a fatherly role until his untimely passing at age 22. Griggs later returned to his hometown, where he balanced roles as a youth minister and a developing musician.