James "Jj" Javon Grifa

James Javon ("JJ") Grifa 24, passed away suddenly on October 15, 2022. James is remembered for his kind soul and unwavering love and dedication to his family.

James was born in Akron, Ohio on June 18, 1998.  He grew up in Stow and Akron areas where he attended Stow elementary schools and later graduated from East High School in 2016. After graduation, James moved to North Carolina where he worked and mentored with his grandfather, John Grifa. He spent most of his days working hard to support his young family and the family business.  James is the proud father of his young son, Javon Grifa, and was excited to father his daughter, Octavia Grifa, expected in March 2023.

He is survived by his mother and father, Nichole Grifa of Akron and James Mckinnie III of Cleveland; his adoring sisters, Makayla Grifa and Alana Bryant; his brother, Jayden Mckinnie; his significant other, Jada Anderson and son Javon Grifa; young nephews, Jordan and Giovanni; his maternal grandparents, Jena Zastudil and John Grifa; his parental grandmothers, Donna Singleton and Wanda McKinnie; his aunts and uncles, Ryan (Amber) Grifa, Michael (Megan) Grifa, Lauren (Steve) Grifa, and Branden McKinnie; and many cousins of whom he was so supportive and proud.

James is preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents, John and Mary Grifa; paternal grandfather, James McKinnie Jr.; and his aunt, Denise McKinnie.

Family and friends may visit from 12 until 3 P.M. followed by a service commencing at 3 P.M. on Sunday, October 23, 2022 at the Donovan Funeral Home, 17 Southwest Ave., Tallmadge, OH. (On the Historic Tallmadge Circle).