Monica Ann Griffin of Westville, FL, born on July 16, 1958, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, surrounded by her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and servant of the Lord, she leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and dedication to others.
Monica lived a life of humility and hard work. She worked a variety of jobs throughout her life, including Russell Manufacturing in Geneva, AL. Upon its closing, with the encouragement of her husband, she returned to school and earned her teaching degrees. She began her teaching career at Bonifay Middle School, where she taught briefly before transferring to Ponce de Leon Elementary School. There, she spent almost 20 years loving, educating, and inspiring Little Pirates.
Loved deeply by her students, Monica had a gift for making them feel special and capable. They knew they were loved, and in return, they loved her. Each class she had the privilege to teach was touched by her kindness and dedication.
Though she served in many grades throughout her teaching career, her favorites were her 4th-grade science and social studies classes and her time teaching 2nd grade.
She was a dedicated member of West Pittman Baptist Church, where she served as the children’s Sunday school teacher. She taught the books of the Bible and the Disciple’s names. Her students at West Pittman could play Bible games and Bible Drills with expertise.
Though the community knew her as quiet and kind, her family was privileged to know the other sides of her—her humor, her stubbornness, and the wit that kept them laughing. She could be strong-willed, fiercely protective of those she loved, and always ready with a sharp remark or a playful joke.
She was married to Michael Stanley “Stan” Griffin for 38 years.
Monica was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Allen Durham and Ann Leota Williams Durham.
She is survived by her husband, Stan, and her four children: Heather Gainey (Gina) of Pensacola, Florida; Holly Blane Culpepper (Grant) of Westville, Florida; Shannon Griffin White (Jared) of Ponce de Leon, Florida; and Henry Griffin (Summer) of Westville, Florida.
A devoted and proud grandmother, she leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Jayden Welcome White, Chloe Bijou Culpepper, Madison Snow White, Henry Austin Griffin II (Hank), Carmen Alana Culpepper, London Blaze Griffin, and Benjamin Blake Otha Griffin.She is also survived by her loving siblings, Leo Durham of DeFuniak Springs, Florida; Lin Mims (Johnny) of Bainbridge, Georgia; and Trina Durham of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
Monica was a woman of quiet strength, always moving where she was needed. She was a good friend—humble and kind—with a servant’s heart that guided her actions. Whether in the classroom, in her church, or with her family, she worked tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Her hardworking spirit, gentle heart, and steadfast faith will live on in the many lives she touched. Her impact on her family, students, church, and community will never be forgotten.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at West Pittman Baptist Church with Rev. Daniel Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Hurricane Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva directing. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday beginning at 2:00 p.m. Flowers will be accepted.
