Gwendolyn Griffiths

Gwendolyn Griffiths (née Henry), affectionately known as Mommy, Grandma, Gwennie and Aunt Gwen, was born on July 25, 1937, in the Burnt Cedar District of Morgan Forest, Clarendon, Jamaica, West Indies. She was the ninth of eleven children born to the late Nycanor and Florence Henry. Gwendolyn received her early education at the Tweedside All-Age School in Clarendon.

In 1968, Gwendolyn courageously migrated to the United States alongside her lifelong friend, the late Eula Phillips. The two women shared a profound mission—to become trailblazers for their families. Their efforts laid the foundation for the successful migration of their siblings and extended family from Jamaica to the United States. Over time, the Henry and Phillips families became among the largest Jamaican families in the Trenton, New Jersey area.

A devoted member of the Church of Christ, Gwendolyn, together with her devoted husband Samuel A. Griffiths of 40 years, was deeply involved in church ministry. Their work extended beyond the sanctuary, as they frequently visited the sick and elderly, and provided domestic assistance to those in need. Known for her wisdom and compassion, Gwendolyn offered heartfelt counsel to individuals of all ages, even in her final days.

Gwendolyn was employed by General Motors until her retirement in 1992. Following her retirement, she returned to Jamaica, where she and her husband had built a beautiful home. Her return did not mark a period of rest; rather, she became an active contributor to her community, partnering with the Sandy Bay Church of Christ to aid in the construction of a new church building.

In 2006, the couple resettled in the United States, making their home in Richmond, Virginia. In 2023, Gwendolyn returned to New Jersey—the place where her American journey began.

Beyond her faith and community service, Gwendolyn found joy in crocheting personalized, oversized blankets for her children and grandchildren. She was also fond of board games, especially Ludi, which she enjoyed with friends and family. A passionate gardener, she delighted in nurturing her plants and creating beautiful outdoor spaces. Gwendolyn also remained active through regular visits to the gym and embraced opportunities to travel, exploring new places and cultures with curiosity and joy. Her impeccable sense of style earned her the affectionate nickname “Ms. Queen Elizabeth,” as she took great pride in coordinating her outfits and matching hats with grace, elegance, and beauty.

Gwendolyn lived a life rooted in faith, love, and purpose. She sadly passed away on May 18, 2025. As the last surviving member of her generation, she now joins her parents, Nicainer and
Florence Henry; ten siblings Myrtle, Inez, Gladys Mae, Eric, Asdel (akaBro. Ned), Israel (aka Bro. Bob), Benjamin, Merl, John (aka Bro. Vin), and Percival (aka Bro. Percy)-in eternal rest.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Samuel A. Griffiths; daughter, Veronica (Mack) Gibson Sr. of New Jersey; son, Richard (Cindy) Mendez of Kansas; grandchildren, Mack (Talaya) Gibson Jr., Nicole Gibson, Charles Gibson, Tyrese Mendez, Nicolas Mendez, and Keeyana Mendez; great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Gibson, Na’Ziah Gibson, and Mellodi Boldt; stepson, Donald (Avis) Griffiths of London; stepdaughter, Marva Griffiths of New York; granddaughter, Marie Brown of New York; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and her cherished Church of Christ community.

Gwendolyn’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, service to others, and a life beautifully lived. 

Funeral service will be 12pm Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Church of Christ, 411 N. Clinton Ave., Trenton, NJ.  Calling hour will be 11am until time of service at the church.  Interment will be at Fountain Lawn Memorial Park, Ewing, NJ. 

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