INDIANAPOLIS
Claudia Katherine Griffin (February 20, 1939 – July 10, 2023) lived a beautiful life. Born in Indianapolis to the late Roy Poland Sr. and Mary Poland (Whitaker), Claudia was shaped by a lively family on the west side. She graduated from Ben Davis High School in 1957. Claudia valued and enjoyed working hard. Over the years, she was employed at Link Belt, Northeast Elementary School, 5/3 Bank, the Griffin Buildings, and she just retired in the summer of 2022. During the 70’s and 80’s, she actively volunteered with the PTO and Greenwood Lassie League. Playing cards, bowling, and watching the horse races were a few of her favorite pastimes. She was also a sports enthusiast who cheered for the Hoosiers, Pacers, Colts, and her athletic family members. She was Marty (#15) Griffin’s biggest fan! She loved eating popcorn and drinking Pepsi. You didn’t need to ask chocolate or vanilla- the answer was chocolate.
But, the thing Claudia treasured most, was the family she nurtured with her true love, Donald Griffin. Married on June 7, 1959, their adventures lasted nearly 63 years until Donald preceded her in death in February of 2022. They had three children, seven grandkids, and seven great-grandkids. Her family is heartbroken, but will forever cherish a lifetime of Sunday dinners, lots of hugs, and much laughter. She was a bright, warm, and welcoming light in the world. This fun-loving, four foot ten inch darling, has left a giant sized legacy of love and will be sorely missed.
She is survived by her daughters: Brenda (Bryan) Woods of Martinsville, and Donna (Ron) of Mooresville, North Carolina; her grandchildren: Brandi (Brad) Phoenix, Brent (Jami) Woods, Nick Griffin, Carly (Shawn) Griffin, Dustin (Alita) Griffin, Delaney Welsh, and Greyson Welsh; her great grandchildren: Peyton Phoenix, Hayli Phoenix, Kati Woods, Wyatt Woods, Raelynn Anderson, Kashton Griffin, and Kinley Kiess; and her sister, Jean (Jim) Gillespie.
Claudia was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Griffin; her son, Marty Griffin; her brothers, Roy Poland Jr. and Raymond Poland; and her sister, Nellie Wise.
Her life will be celebrated on July 17, 2023. A visitation will be held from 10:30 am until the time of service at 12:30 pm at Singleton and St. Pierre Funeral &Cremation Services, 7602 Madison Ave, Indianapolis. Arrangements are in care of Singleton and St. Pierre Funeral &Cremation Services.
