Joyce Marilyn Griffin

Joyce Marilyn Ihms Griffin passed away on October 29 at the age of 95. Joyce was born in 1930 in Davenport, Iowa to Harry Ihms and Alma (Kuhl) Ihms. Her early years were formed growing up in Davenport during the Great Depression and World War II.

She attended the University of Iowa, graduating with a B.A. and M.A. (1953). It was there that she met Martin Eugene Griffin Jr, an Army Medical Student. They were married for 17 years and traveled with the Army to San Francisco, San Antonio, Germany, and then finally settling in San Antonio. She had two sons, one born in San Francisco (Jim) and the other in San Antonio (Kent).

Joyce was an active member (and served as Senior Warden) of St Luke’s Episcopal Church, and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. In the 70’s and 80’s, she worked as Director of Camps and Conferences for the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas. After retirement, she volunteered at the Green Door Thrift Store, as well as the San Antonio Zoo.

Joyce loved to travel the world with her friends and visited many exotic places including Africa and China. She also spent much of her time in Rockport, TX where she fine-tuned her bird watching skills.

She is most remembered for her kindness and gentle spirit, and devout faith. She is survived by her sons Jim (and wife Patricia) and Kent (and wife Nancy), and four grandchildren: Leigh Thompson (Griffin), Michelle Griffin, Patrick Griffin and Katie Griffin, as well as two great grandchildren: Beren Griffin and Ethan Thompson.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St Luke’s Episcopal Church in Alamo Heights on November 7, 2025.