It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Melba "Joyce" Griffin, who departed on Thursday, February 27th. She made a lasting impact on all who knew her, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family and friends. Joyce was active in the Kerrville community and spent much of her time with her extended family of friends at the Dietert Center until Parkinson's disease restricted her activities.

Joyce was born at home on May 16, 1939, in Medina, Texas, the daughter of Wilfred and Dorothy (Taylor) Perkins of Center Point. As the eldest of five siblings, she assisted her mother in raising her brothers and sisters. From an early age, Joyce demonstrated a free spirit, intelligence, determination, and love for Jesus, qualities that remain her legacy.

Joyce married James Griffin on December 26, 1959, at the First Baptist Church in Center Point. They built a life together, raising six children and nurturing their hopes and dreams. James' Navy career took them to various locations including Spain, New Jersey, Florida, and California, though they always considered Kerrville their home. Joyce cherished road trips with her children, often filling the journey with songs and picnic lunches.

Joyce was a vibrant presence at every festival, party, parade, event, or craft show in Kerrville. She was a beacon in the community. She loved dancing and singing and was known for her enthusiastic singing of the Star-Spangled Banner at patriotic events. She was a devoted ''American Girl'' who loved the red, white, and blue. She loved Cowboy Camp Meeting every year and enjoyed all the activities.

Joyce was a member of Trinity Baptist Church, but we liked to tease her saying she was ''born Baptist.'' In her younger years, Joyce was active in the VFW and the American Legion. After James' passing, she found camaraderie at the Dietert Center, where she enjoyed bingo, card games, dominoes, and the companionship of her extended family of friends. She was an avid fan and loved her Dallas Cowboys, watching every game when she could.

Joyce was preceded in death by her father Wilfred Perkins, mother Dorothy Taylor Perkins, son-in-law David LeMeilleur, and grandson Nathaniel.

She is survived by her six children: Denise Griffin LeMeilleur, William ''Bill'' Griffin, Patricia Griffin O'Connor, Theresa Griffin Garcia (spouse Ernest), Linda Griffin Bell (spouse Nathan) and James Griffin. Her fourteen grandchildren include Bryan LeMeilleur (spouse Raquelle), Christopher LeMeilleur, Keith Patrick (spouse Kristin), Casey O'Connor, Patrick O'Connor, Tracie Madueno (spouse Arnold), Jonathan Griffin, Jessica Garcia, Danielle Garcia (Fiancé Desmond Newton), Javier Garcia, Adam Bell, Heather Griffin, Thomas Griffin, and William Griffin; as well as great-grandchildren; Isaac, Gage, Martin, Ace, Ryland, Theo, Greyson, Pearla Sky, Arthur and Emerson. She is also survived by her siblings Barbara Potter, Debbie Grinnan, Wilfred Perkins, and Fred Perkins, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Her memory will be eternally cherished by her family and all who were fortunate to know her.

Visitation will be held at Grimes Funeral Chapel on March 5th from 4-6 pm. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor her memory, share stories, and celebrate her beautiful life. A celebration of Joyce's life will take place at Trinity Baptist Church on March 21, 2025, at 11 AM. Interment will be at Fort Sam Houston, dates to be determined.

Though we mourn her loss, we take comfort and joy knowing that Melba Joyce Griffin's legacy of life will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a remarkable woman whose life was genuine and exemplified strength and determination. Joyce will be deeply missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Dietert Center in her memory.

The family wants to express our sincere gratitude to the staff at Riverside Nursing and Rehab and Alamo Hospice and Juniper. Together, you were an amazing team of professionals who cared for our mom. Thank you.

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