Shirley Jeanne Griffiths

Shirley was born in 1921 in East Orange, New Jersey. She spent most of her early life in nearby Newark. She had one younger sister, Ruth. After finishing high school she had several jobs, including one with the Prudential Insurance company. She met her future husband, Frank, at a church social. Their relationship grew to be serious, then world events interfered. Frank entered the Army and was sent far away for training. Realizing the impending war would soon take Frank overseas, in July of 1942, they married in New Orleans, which was close to the Army base where he was stationed. Shirley took the train from New Jersey for the simple wedding and a brief honeymoon. As expected, Frank was sent to Europe for the duration of the war. Afterwards he returned to New Jersey, where they began a family of two children, Cheryl and Kent. Work then brought them to Washington D.C., and a house in Fairfax City. Shirley was a stay at home mom, until the kids became young adults. She then had several jobs, including as a branch manager at American Security and Trust’s office in the U.S. Department State. She had an active life with Frank after both retired, including many years volunteering at the Fairfax Hospital Treasure Trove Thrift shop in Annandale. They also enjoyed many overseas trips with family and friends. She loved being with her extended family, which included Cheryl’s husband, Bill, and their son, Zach. Zach would go on to marry Teresa. After Cheryl passed away, Bill remarried Lorraine, and parts of her family joined the circle. Nephews and nieces, respectively, Glenn and Carol, would marry and have children and grandchildren of their own. They too formed an integral part of the family tree. After Frank’s passing, Shirley chose to live her life at The Virginian continuing care community, conveniently located across the street from their townhouse. She formed many friendships there with staff and residents. All of us who knew her will keep a special place in their hearts for her. Parking in residence spaces will be allowed for her memorial service.