Erna Babette Griffith

With deep love and fond remembrance, we announce that our beloved Erna Babette Griffith, affectionately known to all as Betty, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love and affection, on June 19, 2025, at the age of 93. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and unforgettable memories.

Born in 1931, in Wies at Miesbach, Germany, Betty lived life with flair, resilience, and a sparkle that was unmistakably hers. She was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness and laughter touched all who knew her. She lit up every room she walked into — always dressed to the nines, lipstick perfectly applied, and a spirit that refused to be dimmed.

Betty was the beloved wife of the late Hubert Griffith, with whom she shared over 52 years of love, laughter, and partnership before his passing in 2005. Together, they built a life founded on family, faith, and cherished traditions.

She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Kreutner; her mother, Barbara Kreutner; her sister Helen Kreutner; her brothers, Michael and Albert Kreunter; her son-in-law, Bruce Sanders.

Betty is survived by her children: Diane Sanders, James Griffith and his spouse Lisa Serrato, and Karen Minner and her spouse Doug Minner; her grandchildren: Terri Renee Hicks, Christine Sanders and her spouse Carl Spencer, Autumn Sanders, Kimberly Scott and her spouse Ben Scott, Ben Griffith, Austen Minner, and Kalle Minner; her great-grandchildren: Christopher Hicks and his spouse Taylor Hicks, Desiree Long and her spouse Jarrett Long, Kelsey Sanders, Jeremiah Sanders, Andrew Perkins, Isaiah Williams, Henry Scott, Eleanor Scott, Frances Scott, and soon-to-arrive Luca Minner; and her great-great-grandchildren: Christopher Hicks II, Taiden Hicks, Leilani Long, Elle Gianna Hicks, and Jace Long.

She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Rosemary Richards, along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved her deeply.

Betty had a gift for making everyone feel at home. She especially loved sitting in the kitchen surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories over coffee and a sweet treat — often with laughter echoing through the house. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: a good game of bingo, taking trips “up the hill” to the casino, and listening to the timeless voice of Elvis Presley. In later years, she became a devoted fan of Daniel O'Donnell, whose music brought her great comfort and joy.

She was a woman of remarkable faith, strength, and resilience — a true force of nature. Even into her 90s, she remained fiercely independent, still driving herself wherever she pleased and living life on her own terms. She was forever young at heart: full of vitality, wit, and a zest for life that defied her age. Her energy was infectious, her spirit unshakable, and her outlook always bright. Betty reminded us that age is just a number — and that true youth lives in the heart.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She was one of a kind — unforgettable, unstoppable, and deeply loved. Her laugh, her fire, and her fabulousness will live on in all of us.

A Rosary and Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 24th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hampton Vaughan Crestview Funeral Home & Memorial Park.

A service to celebrate Betty’s extraordinary life will follow on Wednesday, June 25th, at 10:00 AM, with an intimate reception immediately afterward.