Irene Hill Griffin known to some as “Piggy” transitioned from labor to reward on Wednesday, October 16, 2019. Irene was born on August 25, 1942 to the late Howard A. Hill Sr. and Corrine Hill in Emporia, VA. She was one of eight children. She was educated in the Portsmouth Public School system and was a proud graduate of I. C. Norcom High School in 1961.Irene worked as a dental hygienist with Beasley Dental Foundation, formally known as Portsmouth Dental Clinic where she retired after 30 years of service. On March 30th, 1973, she married the love of her life, William Maurice Griffin, Jr. From this union two children were born, Derrick and Steven. Irene was a nurturing mother and loving wife.
Her Passion
With a warm heart, Irene would cook, sing and dance while hosting holiday events and spending time with her famliy. It brought her great joy to see her children, grandchildren and siblings come together in laughter, love and celebration. Outside of hosting family events, she loved to shop. She was a lady of class and at any given time you would see her adorned in her fur coats, hats, and flashy jewelry. Irene touched many with her angelic voice. She sang as a soloist around the city at community events and was sought after by many churches to minister through song. She traveled with the Robert Batty Singers to share the gospel. She was also a member of the Disciple All Stars, The Family of Love, The Soul Symphonic Band, and Rev. William Taylor and the Gospel Flames. Her voice shall forever resound in our hearts.
Her Service
As a child Irene attended Noble Street Baptist Church. She later joined New Mount Olivet Baptist Church where she grew in faith and served faithfully on the Diaconate Board and as a member of the music ministry. She was crowned Sharon Missionary Baptist Queen in 1985. Before her health failed she became a member of First Baptist Church South Hill. Her Legacy Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Howard A. Hill Sr. and Corrine Hill; sister- Pauline White; and brother- Howard A. Hill Jr.
Irene leaves to cherish her memories her loving husband William Maurice Griffin Jr.; two sons – Derrick (Likeshia), Steven (LaToya); five grandchildren – Armani, Kavonte, Kiera, Derrick Jr., and Steven II; one great-grandchild – Harmoni; one sister- Eula (Reginald) Colbert; four brothers- Roy C. Hill Sr. (Margaret), Larry B. Hill (Tina), Rev. Ray A. Hill (Rose), Danny Hill (Phyllis); three aunts – Ethel Wright, Mabel Harris, Bettie Rose Moss; one uncle – Lee Moss; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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Leslie Hughes says
October 18, 2019 at 9:18 amThe family has my deepest sympathy and condolences. May you find Peace in knowing God selects the Best, she is now singing in the Heavenly Choir.
W.A.Ratcliffe and Family says
October 19, 2019 at 3:03 pmWe pause to celebrate the life of Irene H. Griffin, she was truly a woman after GODS own heart. Such a sweet, and gentle lady with the singing voice of and ANGEL. And to the Griffin and Hill families extended, we extend to you prayers of comfort during this difficult time in your lives. However we do know that Earth Has No Sorrow That Heaven Can Not Heal. May the Grace Of Almighty God BE With Each Of You today, and in the days to come.
DOREE RICHARDSON says
October 20, 2019 at 1:52 pmTo the Family,
Sending Sympathy and prayer to you. Irene was a Coworker
with me at the Dental Clinic she was a kind a loving friend.
She will be missed
Jane Trower -family says
October 20, 2019 at 5:15 pmTo the family , Mrs. Irene will truly be missed. No one could sing like Mrs. Irene. She was loved by so many. A true women of God. Praying for the family.
Benjamin and Tracey Nance says
October 20, 2019 at 10:58 pmBenjamin and I will definitely miss Irene. She had a voice like no other. She went to Jamaica for our wedding and you know she sang so beautifully. Our prayers are with you family. LOVE YOU