Obituary of Betty Jo Griffin

Betty Jo Griffin, 90, of Peabody, passed away Saturday morning unexpectedly at the Care One at Essex Park in Beverly. She was the beloved wife of the late Jack R. Griffin, who passed away in 2014. Betty was born on December 12, 1930, in Fort Collins, CO, daughter of the late Joseph and Eunice (Gault) Christopher. Betty spent most of her years as a mother and homemaker, taking pride in taking care of her children, she was an adventurous cook, and a talented seamstress. Later in life, as her husband retired, she took the initiative and attended Suffolk University, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Paralegal studies at the age of 65. She was also member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She kept herself very active, serving as a swimming instructor and the YMCA in Danvers for many years and enjoying the game of racquet ball. She was also an avid outdoor enthusiast. In her down time, she enjoyed reading or spending time at her cottage in New Hampshire, which was very dear to her. She leaves behind two sons, Larry & his wife Patricia Griffin of Peabody and Paul & his wife Alinka Griffin of Peabody; a daughter, Gloria & her husband Ervin Meluleni of Bernardston, MA; eight grandchildren, Jason, Jennifer,, Mackenzie, Emily, Paul Jr. and Sacha; one great-granddaughter Arianna, and several nieces and nephews. Betty’s family will be receiving relatives and friends at their residence, 4 Walter Rd.,Peabody, MA, on Wednesday, February 12 from 4-8P.M. for a Celebration of Betty’s life. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452 or to Brigham and Women's Hospital, 116 Huntington Ave., 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02116.