David Griggs III has a large following of fans in Steiner Ranch and beyond.

“Keep Smiling” David

By LYNETTE HAALAND
Four Points News

David Griggs III has been working at the University of Texas Golf Club gatehouse for more than a year and he has made a huge difference to many with his smile, his encouraging words “keep smiling” and his poster that also says “Keep Smiling”. He was off duty for approximately a week.

“As many of you know, David, our beloved guard at the UT Golf Club was let go last Friday (May 5),” according to the GoFundMe page creator Allison Hawkins.

Fans of Griggs created a GoFundMe page and made several posts and updates on the Steiner Ranch Moms & Tots group page.

Griggs was reportedly let go because of issues relating from a monkey Buddha statue, that someone had given him, that he put above his regular sign which could have been offensive to some, according to reports.

Many posted on the Facebook page how much Griggs meant to them and how he spread true happiness.

Many made phone calls and supported Griggs return including residents, guests, visitors, kids and board members. He returned to work at the UTGC gatehouse on Friday, May 12.

“While we are thrilled to hear this news, David has also lost wages for approximately seven days that he did not have the luxury to lose,” Hawkins posted.

The GoFundMe page entitled “KeepDavidSmiling” was created on May 9 and has surpassed its goal at this point by raising $3,760 for Griggs as of Tuesday morning.

David Griggs III, gatekeeper at the University of Texas Golf Club, is back at his post and continues to encourage many with his phrase “Keep Smiling”.