Thelma Harrod Griffin

On Saturday, January 18, 2025, Thelma Harrod Griffin followed the path God laid for her when she heard Him call and took His hand. Thelma was born to the late William and Carrie Cook Harrod on August 1, 1934, the eighth of nine children in York County, Virginia.

She was a member of the last graduating class of the York County Training School prior to the opening of James Weldon Johnson. She accepted Christ as a child and joined Grafton Baptist Church, Harris Grove. Upon joining the Tabb community as a young wife and mother, she moved her membership to Zion Prospect Baptist Church. Her commitment to the Lord’s work included years as an usher, missionary member, and church clerk.

In 90 years, she adapted well to an ever-changing world. While her children were school-age, she was actively involved in their education by holding the office of both secretary and president of the PTA. As they matured, she decided to enter the workforce, accepting a position with Virginia Extension Service where she educated her clients on nutrition and healthy meal choices for more than ten years. She later worked at Hampton Social Service until her retirement in 1999. Her commitment to service led her to volunteer at Lackey Free Clinic where she offered her assistance with grace, a sense of humor, and a ready smile. Thelma had a special affection for the homeless ministry. She felt a deep love for the members, the fellowship they formed, and her ability to still contribute in a meaningful way. The monthly luncheons with her nieces and great-nieces were also a source of joy while strengthening the family bond. Today we celebrate a life well lived.

Thelma was preceded in death by her siblings, Howard O. Harrod, Sr., Richard T. Harrod, Pauline H. Wyatt, Floyd A. Harrod, Jesse L. Harrod, Sr., William J. Harrod, Rose H. Shields, and Joyce H. Lewis.

She leaves to cherish her life five children: Jacquelyn Nyoka Griffin-Hammonds, Otis L. Griffin, Debra G. Keyes, Tammy T. Griffin, and Kent Griffin; grandchildren Sayia D. Christian, Justin L. Keyes, Starr D. Christian, Kent L. Griffin Bartlett, and Hunter P. Griffin; great-grandchildren Justice D. Jenkins, Jordan S.D. Carter, and Thomas J. Carter; a special niece, Alice Wilkerson, who was raised as a sister; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service to celebrate Thelma's life will be held at noon on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Zion Prospect Baptist Church, Yorktown, Virginia. Interment to follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens. Ms. Griffin may be viewed in the church on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of her service. 

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting’s Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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