Payton McKenna Griffith was a sixth grader at Bryan Station Middle School. She played volleyball there and was said to be extremely intelligent and very bright. A straight A student with a passion for learning.

On Nov. 14, Griffith was hit by a car on Auburn Drive while she was crossing the sidewalk. The female driver claims that the sun was in her eyes, but police are still investigating.

Griffith died in the UK Chandler Hospital at 4:20 pm that same day. Her mom said she knew her daughter was dead as soon as she got to the scene when she touched her hand and felt how cold it was. The medical team did everything they could to save her but it was too late.

Grief counselors were sent to Bryan Station Middle School by Fayette County Schools to help the students grieve the loss of their friend and fellow classmate. Students wore Payton’s volleyball number, 24, and strips of pink and black ribbon in her memory.  The principal was visibly upset and talked openly about the loss of the young student.

Payton Griffith left behind two sisters, her loving parents, a paternal grandmother, and a great grandmother. They are all grieving the loss of the beloved Payton. It is always extremely difficult to lose a loved one and thoughts and prayers for the Griffith family would be much appreciated.

Chris Davis, a family friend of the Griffiths reached out to the community to help cover the cost of the funeral. If you would like to make a donation to help with the funeral cost you can donate to the “Payton Griffith Memorial Fund” set up at 5/3 Bank.