
09/05/2025
Mrs Merle Griffin, 102, a cherished pillar of her community and a beacon of wisdom and intelligence, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Adel, Georgia. She was born on April 17, 1923, in Lenox, Georgia, to the late Mitchell & Eliza Luke Duren. Mrs. Griffin's life was a testament to her thoughtful nature and her dedication to service.
Mrs. Griffin journey began as a young girl in Lenox, where she grew up surrounded by the love of her family. She spent her formative years there before embarking on a professional path that would see her make significant contributions to her community. Mrs. Griffin found her calling as a teletype operator at Warner Robins Air Force Base, where she also became a proud member of Rosie the Riveter, symbolizing the strength and resilience of women workers during World War II. Her commitment to her work was unwavering, as was her dedication to the various organizations she served throughout her life.
After leaving the Air Force Base, Mrs. Griffin continued to serve her community as a secretary at Woodmen of the World for many years. Her passion for education and her love for her community culminated in a fulfilling career with the Cook County Board of Education, where she retired as the secretary of Cook Middle School after 12 years of dedicated service.
Mrs. Griffin's involvement in her community extended beyond her professional life. She was a member of the Gordon Avenue Baptist Church, where she nurtured her spiritual life and forged lasting friendships. Her compassion and commitment to helping others were evident through her 31 years of membership with the American Cancer Society, where she was honored with the silver plate for her contributions. Mrs. Griffin also devoted 18 years as a Pink Lady at Adel Memorial Hospital, touching the lives of countless individuals with her kindness and support.
Her love for history and culture led her to become an active member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC), the Historical Society, and Friends Helping Friends. These associations benefited greatly from her wisdom and her intelligent approach to preserving and celebrating the past.
Mrs. Griffin's family was the cornerstone of her life. She is survived by her loving children, Ron (Peggy) Griffin of Chula, Freddy (Brenda) Griffin of Adel, David (Susan) Griffin of Adel, Greg (Marilyn) Griffin of Warwick, and Peggy (Jeff) Griffin Parrish of Adel. Her legacy continues through her 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. Mrs. Griffin was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eston S. Griffin; her son, Stanley Griffin; great-grandchildren Shayla and Bree Griffin; great-great-grandchild Shaylin Griffin; her brothers Lenton, Hobert, and Rossie Duren; and her sister, Velma Duren Buckholts.
Mrs.Griffin's life was one of unwavering service, love, and dedication to her family and community. Her thoughtful and intelligent presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on as a guiding light, inspiring future generations to live with the same grace and commitment that she embodied throughout her remarkable life.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Pine Grove Baptist Church with Dr. Danny V. Ray, Rev. Johnny Hendley, and Bro. Franklin Luke officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the service at the church.