Emma Griffin

Emma Lou Griffin, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away April 16, 2025 in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Emma Lou was born March 8, 1936 in Daleville, Virginia to Lawrence and Kathleen Garst.

Emma Lou is survived by her husband, Thomas (Tom) Griffin; daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Ray Cantu of Austin, Texas; son, Michael Griffin of Thornton, Colorado; sister and brother-in-law, Judy and John Tweel of Catharpin, Virginia; sister-in-law, Phyllis Ann Garst of Daleville, Virginia; granddaughters, Courtney and Maren Cantu of Austin, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Lawrence and Kathleen Garst; sister, Norma Williamson; and brother, Benjamin Garst.

Emma Lou and Tom met in Las Cruces, New Mexico and were married for 54 years. She taught home economics in Virginia, New Mexico, and Texas. They retired to Ruidoso in 1996 and enjoyed being in the mountains and watching the deer and elk. Emma Lou was very active in her church at First Presbyterian. She was always crocheting and making an afghan to help a family member or friend celebrate a graduation, wedding, or baby. When Emma Lou didn't have crochet hooks in her hand you would find her in the kitchen cooking and baking, which always included Christmas fudge and Easter candy that she gave to her loved ones.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 10 am at First Presbyterian Church Ruidoso, New Mexico. A reception will follow at the church. Private burial will be held Monday, April 28, 2025 at Fort Stanton Veterans Cemetery, New Mexico.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Lincoln County Food Bank at lincolncountyfoodbank.org.