Florence Bette Griffin, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully with family surrounding her, on November 26th. She was born in Sag Harbor, New York to Elsa Christman Reed and Willis Reed. She married Paul Francis Griffin on April 14, 1944. Florence and Paul were married for 36.5 years. They had 3 children: Barbara, Jinny, and Anthony.
Florence grew up in the Bronx, and moved to Menlo Park, California, when her husband, Dr. Paul Francis Griffin, was offered a position as a professor at Stanford University. With a love for education and languages, Florence studied education and Spanish at San Jose State College. In 1960, the Griffin family moved to Monmouth, Oregon when Paul was hired at Oregon College of Education (now WOU). After Paul's death, Florence later settled in West Salem, Oregon.
Florence loved people and enjoyed helping others. She worked as a dental nurse, worked at Capital Manor, and in several adult Group homes. She was a nurturer, very giving and compassionate, and always there to help those in need.
Florence had a deep love for animals and throughout her lifetime had a vast variety which included horses, cats, birds, bottle fed lambs and goats, a raccoon, fox, monkeys, and even an anteater... but most especially, dogs. When breeding dogs, she was able to save the weakest puppy, working night and day, helping it to survive and thrive. Florence trained and showed her dogs both in conformation and obedience and put many titles on them. She had a special fondness for her Golden Retrievers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Chihuahuas over the many years she competed. She founded the "Polk County Canine Corps Dog 4-H" club and a 4-H horse club, "The Monmouth Wranglers," as well. As a small child in New York, she had a pack of stray dogs that waited for her and followed her as she walked to school. She saved scraps for them and made sure they got treats every day. Animals were an important part of her life.
Florence is survived by her three children: Barbara Griffin-Webb (Don), Jinny Martin (Mike), and Anthony; three grand children: Tara Carter, Paul Martin, and Brandi Martin; great granddaughter, Makenna; brother, W.H. "Wally" Reed; and her beloved Chihuahua, Jessie, and pet Conure.
Florence will be profoundly missed. We take comfort that she is with loved ones who have preceded her and is with her beloved animals, who have waited for her at the Rainbow Bridge.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to a LOCAL animal charity or Sheridan Care Center. We greatly appreciate the love and care the staff at Sheridan Care Center gave our mom.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hed-fh.com for the Griffin family.
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