Betty Ann Griffin passes at 93

Mrs. Betty Ann Griffin was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother,
and beloved friend to many. Betty transitioned peacefully on Wednesday, January
22, 2025, at the age of 93.

Born and raised in St. Louis, MO, Betty lived a full and joyful life rooted in faith,
service, and love. On February 14, 1954, she married the love of her life, Leonard
“Cricket” Griffin. They shared a beautiful partnership until his passing in
November 2020, building a home filled with warmth, laughter and good food.

Known for her generosity, she often bought clothes for her students and shared the outgrown clothing of her own children with those in need.

Betty had a true passion for cooking and was known for preparing gourmet meals.
She eagerly explored new culinary techniques, taking numerous cake decorating
and cooking classes over the years. Whether hosting dinner parties, baking a
beautiful dessert, or sharing recipes with friends, she found joy in creating
delicious dishes. She once made a baby grand piano cake for a family friend’s piano recital.

Betty spent her career shaping young minds within the St. Louis Public School
system until she retired. She was deeply committed to education, believing that
every child deserved the opportunity to learn and grow. She often spent her own
money on books and puzzles for her students, dragging her own children to teacher
supply stores so she could stock her classroom with resources to help them
succeed. Known for her generosity, she often bought clothes for her students and
shared the outgrown clothing of her own children with those in need.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a devoted member of St. Philip’s
Evangelical Lutheran Church, she taught Sunday school and actively participated
in their Lively Senior’s program and church fundraising efforts—including
organizing memorable trips to Tunica, MS. As chair of the Lively Seniors
Committee, her fundraising efforts resulted in purchasing an ice maker, ceiling
lights, a washing machine and a dishwasher for the church. Betty had dedicated
herself to the ideals and sisterhood of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. since 1950.
This Delta Dear believed in uplifting others, fostering unity among women, and
promoting academic excellence and social responsibility.

Betty loved playing bridge in her free time and was an active member of many
bridge clubs. Until a year ago, she remained involved in a club of retired bridge
players, where the games evolved into rounds of Trash and Hollywood Bingo—
always filled with laughter and camaraderie. Music and dancing brought her
immense joy. Even in her later years, Betty would hold her walker with one hand
and snap her fingers with the other, moving to the beat. Caregivers at the Fairmont knew that playing Motown music would always get her up and moving—her love
for music was undeniable and contagious.

She is survived by her loving children, Judith Griffin and Cliff Griffin (Dia), and
her adored grandsons, Christopher and Clayton, who were her pride and joy. Betty
now rests in a wonderful place, surrounded by good friends, reunited with her
beloved Len, and embraced by the grace of God.

Betty Griffin’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family and community
will live on in all who knew her.

Betty Griffin’s Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday February 15, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at St. Philips Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2424 Annie Malone Dr., St. Louis, MO 63113, (314) 531-6318. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimers Association. https://act.alz.org/goto/BettyGriffin.