Born in Nash County, NC, on December 17, 1939, she was the beloved daughter of Annie Laurie and Joe Thurman Griffin. Raised in Epsom, NC, A.J. graduated from Epsom High School and Meredith College. Living most of her adult life in Raleigh, she enjoyed gardening, genealogy, volunteering with the USO and DAR, and spending time at Hyco Lake. After moving to Springmoor in 2016, A.J. connected with friends over enthusiastic rounds of bridge and Rummikub.
Predeceased by her husband of 21 years, Monroe Evans Gardner Jr., and her parents, A.J. is survived by her son Eric Smith (Sally) of Charlotte, NC, and daughter, Betsy Smith of Savannah, GA; grandchildren Griffin Smith of New York City, NY, Gray Smith of Charlotte NC, Andrew Smith of Philadelphia, PA and Lily Smith of Savannah, GA., brother, Shelton Griffin (Courtenay) of Wilson, NC and many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she adored.
A memorial service to celebrate A.J.’s life will be held in the auditorium at Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community on Sunday, March 26, at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.
Special gratitude to close friends Susan Gardner, Ashlynn Greene,Hazel Posiel, Susan Walton, and nurses Rob and Mario, and the Springmoor staff for their compassion throughout this journey.
