Edward Thomas Griffis Sr.

Edward Thomas Griffis, Sr., (popularly known as “Grif”), age 78 of Philadelphia, PA passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, surrounded by his family. Grif was born on July 17, 1946, in the neighborhood of Kensington to his late parents, Elmer and Helen (Appel) Griffis. He was a devoted husband to Joanne (McLaughlin) Griffis; loving father of Edward, Jr. (Bethany), Maureen Consorte (Michael) and Patrick; gentle Pop-pop to Christiano, Edward III and Rockwell. In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, he is survived by his siblings Eileen Williamson, Robert (Debbie), and Thomas (Amy). He is also survived by his in-laws Anne Marie Pettit and John McLaughlin and his nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. Grif was predeceased by his brothers-in-law James J. Pettit, Jr. and Richard Williamson and his niece Adrienne Williamson. A lifelong educator and dedicated civil servant, Grif spent 46 years teaching in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and over 30 years for the City of Philadelphia. His teaching career impacted thousands of students and was evenly split between Cardinal Dougherty and Archbishop Ryan High Schools where he was known for his charismatic lectures on U.S. History and loud personality demanding hard work from each and every student. In addition to teaching, he loyally served his old neighborhood as a Playground Leader for the Department of Recreation tending to Black Coyle McBride (Pop’s) Playground at the corner of Trenton Avenue and Huntington Street. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and his friends. Grif was a proud alumnus of North Catholic High School class of 1964 and St. Joseph’s University class of 1968, and the only other school he shared affection for was whomever was playing against Villanova. He would be regularly found at Hawk Hill cheering on the Hawks as a basketball season ticket holder. His other passions included spending time at the shore with his family and friends, following the Phillies and Eagles, catching any soccer game he could find, and watching old movies with his favorite being John Wayne’s The Quiet Man. Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 PM at St. Bridget’s Church, 3667 Midvale Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19129. A second Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 9:00-10:30 AM at St. Bridget’s Church followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Saint Joseph’s Fund at Saint Joseph’s University online at giving.sju.edu/donate or mail checks to University Advancement, 5600 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131. Arr. Dinan Funeral Home, Phila., PA. Condolences may also be sent to www.dinanfuneralhome.com

Edward Thomas Griffis Sr.

July 17, 1946 - June 26, 2025

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Edward Thomas Griffis Sr.

July 17, 1946 - June 26, 2025

About Us

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Grief & Healing

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Plan Ahead

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