Iris Elaine Griffin

Iris Elaine Griffin, age 88, passed away on August 30, 2024 in Mesquite, TX. She was born August 2, 1936 in the small town of Deport, TX to William Leonard Philley and Lilly Alice Rakes. Growing up she enjoyed spending time with her friends, reading, singing, and playing the piano. After graduating from Deport High School, she attended Paris Junior College and graduated with an Associate of Arts degree with honors. During her time at Paris Junior College, she met the love of her life, Robert L. Griffin. He was the football star and she cheered him on while also being a majorette.

They were married on December 21, 1956 at the First United Methodist Church of Deport. Once married, they were off to attend East Texas State University in Commerce, TX. Robert continued with his football career until being drafted in the Army. While he was away, she continued her education and received her Bachelor of Arts degree. After college and Robert’s deployment, they were ready to start a family. They relocated to Mesquite, TX and raised three children, Robbie, Jana, and Kimberly. They were devoted members of St. Marks United Methodist Church early on and then relocated to New Covenant United Methodist Church upon retiring.

Elaine became an English teacher for the Mesquite Independent School District (MISD). While teaching, she also attended Texas A&M Commerce to pursue her Master of Science degree and graduated in 1970.

While continuing her teaching career until the early 80’s, she was promoted to Coordinator of Secondary Language Arts, Journalism and Foreign Language for the MISD. She remained active in her position to further the education of all children in the school district until retirement in 2001. In all, she contributed 38 years of service to the MISD.

After retirement for Robert and Elaine, they would travel, spend time with family, garden and plant flowers, and attend and watch all sports. They were avid Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars fans and also enjoyed attending their children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

Elaine loved to laugh, joke around, and she always had a smile on her face. She will be dearly missed by all of her family and friends.

She is preceded in death by parents, William Leonard Philley and Lilly Alice Philley, and sister, Geraldine Griffin.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Robert L. Griffin. Children: Robbie Griffin of Richardson, Jana and Chris Barker of Mesquite, and Kimberly Griffin of Mesquite. Grandchildren: Nicholas Griffin and fiancé, Victoria Nichols of Aubrey. Great grandchild: Linley Griffin and many other beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.