Mary A. (Callaghan) Griffin passed into her Lord’s arms late Saturday night, April 8, having attained 91.99 years of age. Mary was born April 9, 1925, in New Hartford, New York, to Vincent Paul and Alice May Callaghan; soon after her family moved to Saranac Lake where she spent her childhood. She earned a scholarship to CCBI in Syracuse, a lucky happenstance as that is where the love of her life, Richard Griffin, was living at the time. Cupid orchestrated a chance meeting in a radio store where, in one quick moment, the dashing Richard swept Mary off her feet and into a life-long love story that continues after 71 years, and is still going strong. Mary dedicated her life to children and church. As the proud mother of 12 children, 6 boys and 6 girls, her faith sustained her and Richard in creating and maintaining their family. And since 12 was just not enough, as their children grew and left home, they embraced 6 more children and provided a loving home to them. As a devout Catholic, Mary taught Religious Education for over 20 years, bringing hundreds of youngsters to their First Communion at St. Mary’s Church in Jamesville, NY, retiring from official teaching from Holy Cross Church in DeWitt, but continuing family instruction in her home.
Cherishing Mary’s memory is her loving husband, Richard, along with the rest of the clan: Richard (Jeanne) Griffin, James (Patricia) Griffin, Alice (Gary) Bell, Nancy (Dave) Thompson, Daniel Griffin, Joe (Linda) Griffin, Sharon (Ray) Moade, Robert (Kathleen) Griffin, Annie (Andy) Agrasto, Kenny (Lori) Griffin, Christie (Rob) Thompson, and Mary (Diem)Nyugen. Being Irish, we rounded out the clan to number over 100, including children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great grandchild. Rest in Peace, Mary, wife and mother. Your job on earth is done.
Family and friends may call from 8:30 to 10:00 am on Wednesday at Holy Cross Church , 4112 E. Genesee St., DeWitt. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow the calling hours. Burial will be in Jamesville-Walnut Grove Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908.