Ronald Raymond Griffin

Ron was the beloved husband of 47 years to his bride, Robin Frei Griffin, and a devoted father to Kyle Griffin (deceased), Ryan Griffin (wife Sarah Sacks), and Blair Griffin (husband James Ricciardella). Ron was predeceased by his parents, Rose and Raymond Griffin, his sister Rosemarie Boratto, and his brother Robert Griffin. Born September 14, 1944, in the Bronx, Ron made Emerson his home for 42 years, where he became a familiar, friendly presence and a man deeply woven into the fabric of the community.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Ron served his country during the Vietnam War. Ever the optimist, he carried a positive outlook throughout his life, famously seeing the glass not half full, but “brimming over”. He was a natural people person - someone who could strike up a meaningful conversation with anyone, anywhere—and was affectionately known by his family as “OT,” for over-talker. Helping others was second nature to Ron; no request was ever too much, and he was always there when needed.

Ron was a devoted family man who guided his loved ones through life’s joys and challenges with strength, humor, and unwavering love. After the devastating loss of his son Kyle, Ron’s compassion deepened even further—his hugs became legendary, offered freely and wholeheartedly, a living tribute to his son’s memory. As a proud Gold Star Father, he traveled to Iraq to experience the land where Kyle served, carrying home countless stories and reflections.

Throughout his life, Ron wore many hats. He took pride in his time as an Uber driver, completing over 27,000 rides and collecting endless stories of connection and kindness along the way. From neighbors and nurses to mail carriers and mechanics, Ron never missed an opportunity to connect, always finding the good in people.

Known lovingly as a “thick-headed Irishman from the Bronx,” Ron was strong, smart, brave, and resilient. Above all, he was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and coach, whose warmth and optimism touched countless lives.

The Griffin family will receive relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–9:00 PM. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Road, Paramus, at 1:00PM (guests who wish to join the Griffin’s at the graveside service are asked to meet at George Washington Memorial Park).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ron’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.