Mary Sigurdson Griggs

She will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was born in Fargo, North Dakota, on April 11, 1939 and was raised in Moorhead, Minnesota, by Arinbjorn and Ruth Nilles Sigurdson. Mary’s father died when she was twelve, but her upbringing continued in a close-knit family as her mother remarried, and Andy Munn became a second beloved father and eventual grandfather. Mary attended Mount Mary University in Wisconsin and graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree in Occupational Therapy. Following graduation, Mary moved to Dallas, Texas, where she met her future husband, Michael Griggs. Mary and Mike married August 21, 1965 and raised 4 children in their 55 years of marriage. Mary worked in pediatrics as an occupational therapist for several years before leaving the profession to raise her children. Mary was a leader in Camp Fire Girls and Girl Scouts while also being an active participant in school activities at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School and Woodrow Wilson HS. She returned to the work force as an office manager, most notably working at the Catholic Foundation for many years. Upon retirement she was very active in the Ladies of Charity, Dallas, serving as President since 2013. Mary and Mike were able to travel in their retirement, and a highlight was their trip to the Holy Land where they renewed their wedding vows at the church in Cana. Mary’s passion for volunteering and gardening will be remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Michael Griggs: her sister Katherine (Michael) DeMersseman (Rapid City, SD); her brother John Sigurdson (San Diego, CA); her children Karen (David) Wooldridge (Palestine, TX); Dr. Tom (Jane) Griggs (Edmond, OK); Diane (David) DiGiacomo (Charlottesville, VA); Mark (Andrea) Griggs (Van Nuys, CA); and 7 grandchildren: Trey Wooldridge, Kaleigh Wooldridge, Grace Griggs, Luke Griggs, Caroline DiGiacomo, Michael DiGiacomo, and Boden Griggs.

As wife, mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, or friend, Mary gave her best to all and touched the lives of many. Mary’s faith guided her life decisions enabling her to work hard and love deeply.

The family wishes the celebration of Mary’s life could be more befitting to someone who brought joy to so many, but due to the Covid pandemic, funeral services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of Mary’s favorite charities: Ladies of Charity of Dallas Inc. or St Vincent DePaul at St. Thomas Aquinas.