Dorothy M. Griffin

Dorothy M. Griffin, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Junction City, Kansas, at the age of 85. Born on January 17, 1941, in Searcy, Arkansas, Dorothy lived a life filled with love, adventure, and service to her family and community.

Throughout her life, she embraced a variety of vocations, showcasing a remarkable work ethic and versatility. She owned a floral arrangement business based in her home, assisted with her husband's carpet cleaning services as a co-operator, engaged in microfilm preparation for the Las Vegas Police Department, and assisted with event management at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Her sewing skills were unmatched, making clothes for her children and most notably local Vegas Show girls. Despite these diverse professional experiences, her most significant role was as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Dorothy met her beloved husband, Jesse B. Griffin Jr., while he was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nevada. They married on February 14, 1958, in Henderson, Nevada, and shared 66 wonderful years together until his passing on March 18, 2024.

Dorothy’s personality radiated warmth and kindness; she was known for her adventurous spirit, perfectionism, and inspiring nature. She was a wonderful sister and a devoted member of the First Baptist Church community, touching the lives of many wherever she lived. Her family was her proudest accomplishment, and she delighted in hosting family gatherings at every opportunity, creating cherished memories that will remain in their hearts forever.

Her interests were as varied as her professional endeavors. Dorothy loved sewing, gardening, baking, and bird watching, skills that she enjoyed sharing with her family. She had a passion for spoiling her children and grandchildren with delicious food, always bringing joy through her cooking. Additionally, she found happiness in hunting, fishing, and traveling, embracing life to its fullest.

Dorothy is survived by her loving son, Scott Griffin; daughters, Tina Lial and Betty Ann Griffin; daughter-in-law, Gina Griffin; and her cherished grandchildren: Jason Griffin, Mykee (BreAnn) Jones, Shellie Griffin, Roxanne Pakeman, and Richard (Monica) Lial. She also held a special place in her heart for her great-grandchildren, Kelsee Griffin, Cody Griffin, Sierra Johnson, Haley Johnson, Mason Johnson, Lakota Jones, Jace Pakeman, Javi Pakeman, Tia Pakeman, Judi Pakeman, Gage, AriMae Jones, and Lily Jones. Dorothy is further survived by her brother, Donald (Sharon) Head, and her sister, Johnny Ruth (Donnie) Pennell.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Doris and Perneva Head; her husband, Jesse B. Griffin Jr.; her son, Jerry Griffin; and her grandson, Jamie Griffin.

Her legacy of love, devotion, and joy will continue to inspire all who knew her. A visitation will be held on February 26, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Junction City, Kansas. A graveside service will follow at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, Kansas, at 1:00 PM.

Dorothy M. Griffin will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

To livestream Dorothy's funeral service, please click on the following link: Dorothy Griffin's Funeral Service