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Carolyn Griffin Obituary
CHAPEL HILL - Carolyn Ward Griffin suddenly left this world to be with Jesus in the early morning of October 5th, 2019. She was born on July 2, 1944 in Nash County. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents Thomas Marvin Ward and Lucile Parker Ward and her sister Theresa Ward Brown.
She was a graduate of Red Oak High School in 1962 after which she attended East Carolina University.
She was a remarkable friend to those she came to know in her many years of working as a clerk at the Chapel Hill Hallmark store. She was a longtime faithful choir member at North Chapel Hill Baptist Church and then at Antioch Baptist Church of Chapel Hill.
Her passion was traveling. She took full advantage of her daughter Tammy's job at Delta and traveled the world with her husband and sister to scenic destinations in Canada, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland, Hawaii, Colorado, California, Arizona, Washington, Alaska and especially Montana. She traveled as far as China including the Great Wall and cherished even close destinations like her favorite North Carolina beach, Emerald Isle, where she spent her birthday almost every July. Recently she enjoyed spending time with family at the house on Lake Gaston where every sunset was a special one to her, even her last on Friday evening.
Another passion was UNC basketball. She attended every game she could and loved Dean Smith and Roy Williams. She was a regular storming Franklin Street celebrating each Tarheel National Championship.
She will be sorely missed by her husband of 55 years, Samuel Cecil Griffin. Her son, Robbie Griffin and daughter Tammy Purner (Drew) are devastated by her passing. She is also survived by four grandsons, Zachary Griffin (Jessica), Logan Griffin, Sean Purner, Shane Purner and her brother Gerald Ward (Pat) and many nieces and nephews. Her beloved beagles Abby and Buddy will miss her and the treats/leftovers that she insisted they get daily.
A Celebration of Carolyn's Life will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 at 11:00 AM Antioch Baptist Church, 1707 White Cross Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 with Pastor David Atwater officiating. A Reception with the family will immediately follow the service in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
The Committal Service will take place at Rocky Mount Memorial Park at 4:00 PM that afternoon. There will be a Fellowship Meal following the Committal at Dortches Baptist Church, 4776 Dortches Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Antioch Baptist Church, 1707 White Cross Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
As published in the Rocky Mount Telegram
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Memories and Condolences
for Carolyn Griffin
Guy & Val Bowmaster
October 2, 2020
Guy and I have missed our dear friend, Carolyn. We treasure our memories of sharing, laughing and hugging with Cecil and Carolyn. She was a kind, Christian women who changed any situation to love, patience and friendship. She had a vibrant smile which I remember.
We think of you often, Carolyn and pray for those who share our loss.
Blessings to the wonderful family. We love each of them dearly.
Pat Beyle
October 8, 2019
Sitting in front of Carolyn at basketball games made the event whole. We will miss her loyalty and passion.
October 7, 2019
Carolyn will be missed by the many people she had contact with form her class mates to her family.God Bless the you CECIL and family. L.C.Griffin
Angie Dameron
October 7, 2019
I was so shocked and saddened by the news of her sudden passing. She was always so sweet and thoughtful to us all. Love and prayers of healing for your broken hearts.
Paul Dawson
October 7, 2019
Very sad to hear of Carolyn's passing. Another of the great Parker family that holds so many fond memories of those that were fortunate enough to be part of the Thanksgivings and other happy times at Sleepy Hollow and in Rocky Mount. Sincere condolences and prayers to Cecil, Robbie, Tammy, Drew and the rest of Carolyn's close family circle. We will always remember her happy smile and engaging personality and can be comforted in the knowledge that she is still smiling in being reunited with her friends and Parker kin.
Tamara Flick
October 7, 2019
What a great lady and friend. Ms Carolyn was a very giving person, anytime I went to visit her she always sent me home with something. She enjoyed her life and always had a smile. I enjoyed our time together.
Angela Staples Brubaker
October 7, 2019
I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember growing up with Tammy and spending time with their horses and with Carolyn, Cecil and Robby. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy Tripp
October 6, 2019
I met Carolyn and Cecil when they came to Antioch around the time I was in my early teens, which has been over 40 years ago. She was a very fun loving person. She was always very attentive when she was talking with you or asking you how you were doing. Just last Sunday I watched her as she was eating lunch after church, sitting with Cecil, Lamont and Pam. I recall thinking at that time how much better she seemed to be doing. She will definitely be missed here in this life. I know in my heart that she is now singing in that heavenly choir and rejoicing with our Lord. My prayers are for the Lord to give her family a calmness and strength during this tough time. I love each of you.
Guy & Valerie Bowmaster
October 6, 2019
Carolyn and Cecil have both been such a blessing to us since they became our neighbors at Lake Gaston. We have shared many fun visits and meals as we discussed God's plan for us to become Christian friends. We miss our sweet Carolyn, but holding on to our faith, know she is with Our Lord and Savior. We look forward to many more blessed gatherings with Cecil, Drew, Tammy and family. Our hearts ache with each of you. God bless you all during this sorrowful time.
Peace & Love, Guy, Val and Dawson
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