Shirley Griffing Smith Simon

Shirley Griffing Smith Simon

Shirley passed away at home after her final battle with cancer on Tuesday June 25, 2024.

Born on October 2, 1931, to Alice Terrell Griffing and Timothy G. Griffing, Sr. She began her life in Riverhead and proudly remained a lifelong resident in the area. She often shared that the Griffing family came to Riverhead from Southold in 1692.

Shirley graduated from Riverhead High School in 1949. She attended Keuka College for a short time and then came home to marry Herbert E. Smith and become a farmer’s wife. She and Herbert had one child, daughter, Lynne Smith Wheeler (Richard). Sadly, she lost Herb tragically. Throughout that time, she was able to remain positive and active.

Shirley was remarried to C. John Simon in 1984 and became stepmother to Nan E. Simon (Richard Catanese), Ellen M. Simon (David Casada) and Peter J. Simon.

She has a grandson, David R. Wheeler, step-grandson Christopher Catanese (Sarah), step-granddaughter Corey Beth Catanese and step-granddaughter Rebecca Simon.

Shirley was very civic minded and as part of her legacy are many community activities and achievements, too numerous to list. Her many interests included traveling (worldwide), golfing and skiing. Whatever she did was done with poise and grace.

She will be remembered by her family and friends for her positive energy and genuine interest in them all.

She is survived by brother John F. Griffing (Karen) and sister-in-law Michon D. Griffing. Predeceased by sister Nancy G. Jayne, sister Pheobe A. Griffing and brother Timothy G. Griffing, Jr.

Family will receive friends on Friday, July 12th from 2-4pm & 7-9pm, Tuthill Mangano Funeral Home, Inc., 406 East Main Street, Riverhead, NY. Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 11:00am at Riverhead Methodist Church, 204 East Main Street, Riverhead, NY. Inurnment to follow at Riverhead Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to East End Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home during visiting hours.