Helen Ann Griffin

After a lengthy illness Helen Ann Griffin passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on April 15th, 2011 in Norman, OK. She was born December 1, 1926 in Bayonne, New Jersey to immigrant parents. Her parents were Anna Gula Jaglowski and Walter Jaglowski.

Helen attended St. Mary's Elementary School and graduated from Holy Academy Catholic High School in Bayonne. After graduation she accepted a secretarial position at the Naval Base in Bayonne and remained there throughout World War II. It was during this time she met her future husband Homer Edward (Eddie) Griffin who was stationed at the Naval Base. Helen was an active young woman who loved horseback riding, swimming in the bay and dancing. Her love of literature made her consider becoming a writer or a poet, but when she met Homer she knew she wanted to marry and have lots of children. She knew he was a good man with honorable intentions, high morals and a kind heart. They were married July 19, 1947 in Bayonne, New Jersey. While Homer was in the Navy they lived in Corpus Christi, TX and Pensacola, Florida. After Homer's discharge from the Navy they lived in Bayonne, Purcell, OK, and finally settled in Norman, OK to live and raise a family. Helen was an active long time member of St. Theresa's Guild at St. Joseph Catholic Church and volunteered many years at their thrift store. She was also a member of the Golden Agers. Helen was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church for fifty-five years. Helen was a loving mother and it was of utmost importance her children be raised in the Catholic faith which she dedicated herself to and achieved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Homer; three brothers; one sister; daughter, Barbara; sons, Thomas and Michael; grandson, Rodney Groce; and granddaughter, Allison Gonzales.

Helen is survived by her eight children: Homer Edward Griffin Jr. and wife Martha, Theresa Groce and husband Larry, Patricia Gonzales and husband Don, Gloria Jansing and husband Jon, Angie Meyer and husband Kevin Lessley, Anna Griffin, Kristina Taylor and husband Blaine, John Griffin and wife Denise; 13 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A vigil will be held at 6 PM Sunday, April 17 at Primrose Funeral Service in Norman, OK. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM Monday, April 18 at St. Joseph Catholic Church located at 201 N. Porter Ave. in Norman, OK. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, under the direction of Primrose Funeral Service.

To send condolences, please visit primrosefuneralservice.com.