Winona Griffin

Winona (Noni) Griffin, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of all who knew her, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2023. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, adoring grandmother/great-grandmother, and a loyal friend. Born on May 18, 1929, in Denver, Noni spent her early years in Colorado before moving to Northern California in her teens. Upon graduating from high school in Colusa, CA, Noni was accepted to and graduated from St. Mary's School of Nursing in San Francisco, class of 1949. It was while she was working as a nurse at St Mary's and was caring for a new young mother that she had the serendipitous opportunity to meet that new mother's brother, Emmett. It was love at first sight for both Noni and Emmett and they were married in 1950. In 2015 they celebrated 65 years of marriage before Emmett's passing. Over the years Emmett's career required that he and Noni move their family to several states and towns. Noni showed great resilience and support during the family moves. She always loved returning to live in Napa and spent a cumulative 60 years making the Napa Valley her home. Noni was a source of unwavering strength, compassion, and kindness, spreading joy to all those around her. Her smile could brighten the darkest day. As a devoted wife, Noni cherished her lifelong partner, Emmett. Together, they built a love that was a shining example for us all. Their bond was unbreakable, filled with respect, and nurtured by a deep understanding of one another. As a mother, Noni was a constant source of love and guidance. Her children were her pride and joy. She instilled in them the values of integrity, compassion, and perseverance. She was always there to lend an ear, provide sage advice, and offer a comforting embrace. Being a grandmother and great-grandmother brought immense joy to Noni. Her love for her grandchildren knew no bounds. She delighted in their laughter, treasured their hugs, and reveled in witnessing their accomplishments. Noni was a loyal friend whose genuine care and empathy was shared with all those she encountered. Her friendships were built on trust, laughter, and shared experiences. Her kindness and generosity uplifted those around her, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. In addition to her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Noni was also an active member of her community. She selflessly devoted her time to numerous charitable volunteer endeavors including St. Apollinaris Angel Bazaar, of which she was an original founder, St Apollinaris CCD First Communion program, Fellowship and YLI. Although our dear mom is no longer physically with us, we take solace in the knowledge that her spirit will forever guide and protect us. We remember her as the remarkable woman she was - a source of love, strength, and unwavering devotion. Noni was predeceased by her husband, Emmett. She is survived by her children, Robert (Lucy), Thomas (Kelly), Susan (Jim), Paul (JoAnne) and Jean, her adored seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren and a vast network of friends and extended family. A celebration of Noni's life will be held at 12:30 pm on Saturday July 8, 2023 at Claffey & Rota Funeral Home. 1975 Main Street, Napa. Our family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jeanette and Tom Bennett, YLI Prayer Circle, and St Apollinaris parishioners for their prayers and support. And deep gratitude to the Anchor Hospice and Meadows Skilled Nursing team whose compassionate care was a great comfort to Mom and our family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Moving Forward Towards Independence, https://www.moving-forward.org/donate in honor of Noni's lifelong commitment to making the world a better place. Rest in peace, dear Mom. You are deeply missed and will be forever cherished in our memories.

Winona Griffin

May 18, 1929 - June 18, 2023

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Winona Griffin

May 18, 1929 - June 18, 2023

Obituary Notification

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