Watch Hill, R.I. - William John Griffin III, 82, of Greenwich and Watch Hill, R.I., died peacefully on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012, at Yale-New Haven Hospital.Born in New York City on April 23, 1930, he was the son of William and Margaret Griffin. He was raised in Pelham, N.Y. with his twin brother Peter and his younger brother Paul. Bill graduated from The University of Virginia in 1952. So deep was his love for "Mr. Jefferson's University", he remained active in The University's alumni association as well as with the admissions department throughout his life. Upon graduation, Bill served as a Naval Intelligence officer aboard the USS Miller.A gifted entrepreneur and a proud Ford dealer, Bill and his brother Peter opened Griffin Ford in New Rochelle, N.Y. in 1959 as the youngest Ford dealers in the country. He also opened Griffin Ford of New Canaan in 1975 and Griffin Ford of Greenwich in 1977. He was also the dealer of the Lexus franchises in Greenwich and Mt. Kisco, N.Y.Bill loved playing golf, swimming, and spending time at his summer home in Watch Hill with his family. He loved animals and developed a strong interest in racing pigeons at a young age, a passion he pursued throughout his life.A devoted husband and a wonderful father, Bill will be best known as a loyal, honest, generous and gracious friend to all who knew him.Bill is survived by Ellen (Bourquardez) Griffin, his loving wife of 57 years; his son, William John Griffin IV; and his daughters, Kimberley Reynolds, Leslie Lambrecht, and Nicole Griffin. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Geraldine Griffin; and his son-in-laws, Richard Reynolds and Laurence Lambrecht. He was extremely proud of his seven grandchildren, Ryan, Patrick , and Christopher Reynolds, Jack and Grace Lambrecht, and Eliza and Claire Griffin.The family will be having a private service and burial. A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. Aug. 27, at The Watch Hill Chapel in Watch Hill R.I. followed by a reception at The Misquamicut Club.