Harlest Horace Griffith, longtime Roseland resident, went to Heaven on December 12, 2025.
Harlest was born on March 11, 1927, to parents Horace and Veva Faye (Oakes) Griffith in Benton County, Mo. As the oldest of three boys, his brothers were Donny Paul and Dale Ewing Griffith. He served in the United States Army and returned from Germany toward the end of World War II. Harlest and his father owned and operated the Roseland Store. He met a lovely local girl, Wilma Alvera Wilson. They were married on February 1, 1948, and settled in Roseland. Harlest and Vera became the proud parents of two daughters, Marsha and Delores.
He was a coal miner, truck driver, store owner, mechanic, and most of all, a farmer. He was a member of the American Legion in Calhoun for over 50 years and served on the MFA Board for many years. He attended Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Roseland. While Harlest had only an 8th grade “formal” education, he never stopped learning and developing new ideas. He was quick with a joke and to lend a helping hand. His hobbies were gardening, hunting, and fishing. He enjoyed playing Pitch and was unbeatable at Checkers.
Harlest was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, mentor and friend. His family was his pride and joy. In addition to his two daughters, he had seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Roseland, Mo., with Pastor Larry Hill officiating and Pastor Jim Heim assisting. Burial will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family suggests contributions to Mt. Olivet Cemetery in care of the Hadley Funeral Home, Windsor. Condolences may be left online at www.hadleyfuneralhome.com.
