Dr. Johnny K. Griggs, DVM, a retired veterinarian and owner/breeder/trainer passed away Wednesday Oct. 19. He was 84. Born Jan. 3, 1932, Griggs graduated from the University of Tennessee in pre-veterinary medicine before obtaining his degree in veterinary medicine from Auburn University. Griggs served in the United States Air Force Veterinary Corps prior to practicing equine medicine in Lexington, Kentucky, beginning in 1958. One of the founders of the High Hope Steeplechase in 1966, Griggs trained steeplechasers and enjoyed success as the owner of 1994 Eclipse Champion Steeplechaser Warm Spell (Northern Baby) among others. The Tennessee native also co-bred Grade I winner Midnight Lucky (Midnight Lute), and GSWs Fairbanks (Giant's Causeway), Premio Loco (Prized), Abraaj (Carson City), and Macho Macho (Macho Uno).
He is survived by his wife Linda Falcione Griggs, his children Miles Henry Griggs, Emily Clayre Griggs, Mary Laura Griggs, J. Kirk (Cathie) Griggs II, Allen Neil (Pam) Griggs, Erritt Hill (Sherry) Griggs and grandchildren, Emily Annie Griggs, Jonathan Griggs, R. Turner White, Martha Laurence White, and Emily Claire Griggs. A memorial service and visitation will be held at Fasig-Tipton Company Newtown Paddock, 2400 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY from 2-4:30 p.m. Oct. 30.
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