Sgt. Greg Graff Obituary: Beloved Pinellas County Schools Officer Dies at 61 After Years of Dedicated Service
PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — With heavy hearts, the Pinellas County community is mourning the loss of Sgt. Greg Graff, a respected law enforcement officer who devoted his later years to ensuring the safety of students, staff, and families within the Pinellas County Schools system. At 61 years old, Sgt. Graff passed away after dedicating seven years of service to the district’s police department, leaving behind a lasting legacy of integrity, commitment, and compassion.
Sgt. Graff joined the Pinellas County Schools Police later in his law enforcement career, bringing with him not only decades of experience but also a profound sense of responsibility toward the next generation. He was more than just a uniformed officer—he was a reassuring presence in hallways, a mentor to students, and a valued colleague among school administrators and fellow officers.
Throughout his tenure, Sgt. Graff oversaw safety operations across dozens of district campuses. Whether directing safety drills, responding swiftly to emergencies, or simply greeting students with a kind word at morning drop-offs, he embodied a steady, caring figure of protection in an unpredictable world. Colleagues describe him as a professional of the highest order—diligent, level-headed, and deeply dedicated to his mission of safeguarding educational spaces.
“Greg wasn’t just doing a job. He had a calling,” said one fellow officer. “He believed every child had the right to feel safe at school, and he made that his personal mission.”
Beyond his work, Sgt. Graff was known as a man of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and unwavering ethics. He had a profound love for his family and a strong sense of community. His ability to remain calm under pressure and extend kindness in even the toughest situations earned him the trust and respect of countless students, parents, and faculty members.
His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many. Tributes have poured in from across the county, including school board members, police leadership, and families touched by his presence. Many have shared stories of Sgt. Graff’s patience and wisdom, especially in moments when students faced challenges or uncertainty. To some, he was a protector. To others, he was a confidant, a role model, and a true friend.
A memorial service celebrating Sgt. Greg Graff’s life and service is expected to be held in the coming days. Pinellas County Schools plans to honor him with a moment of silence across campuses, and flags have been lowered to half-staff in his memory.
As the community reflects on his years of service, Sgt. Graff’s impact is felt far beyond the badge. He will be remembered not only for his courage and professionalism but for his heart—a heart that beat for the safety and well-being of every child he swore to protect.
Rest in peace, Sgt. Greg Graff. Your legacy lives on in the lives you’ve touched and the schools you helped make safer.