Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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July 17, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2025
Contact: press@michigan.gov
Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Former Jackson Mayor Marty Griffin
LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, July 18, to honor the life and service of former Jackson Mayor and state Representative Marty Griffin.
“Marty Griffin spent his life and career fighting to make a difference in the lives of his constituents,” said Governor Whitmer. “A champion for Jackson’s parks, Marty made sure every resident could enjoy updated and safe recreation areas across the city. His tenure as the longest serving Jackson mayor resulted in improvements to the water infrastructure and downtown. He will be remembered as a true public servant committed to making Jackson better for its people. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and those who worked with and served alongside him.”
Marty Griffin began his career in public service after graduating from the University of Michigan, joining the office of U.S. Congressman Carl Pursell as a service representative. In 1995, Griffin became the mayor of Jackson, serving until 2006 and again from 2011 to 2013. He became Jackson’s longest-serving mayor. As mayor, Griffin was a passionate advocate for the city’s parks, ensuring everyone could access and enjoy the outdoors in their city.
In between his time serving as mayor, Griffin ran for office at the state level, securing a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives, representing Michigan’s 64th district from 2007 to 2011. In 2018, Griffin was appointed as Jackson’s treasurer, a role in which he served until his death.
Former Jackson Mayor Marty Griffin is survived by his mother Janet Griffin and siblings.
The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former Jackson Mayor Marty Griffin by lowering flags within the State Capitol Complex to half-staff. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Flags should be returned to full staff on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
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