Effie Mae Griffin, age 84, of Wilmington died Saturday, November 7, 2009 at Britthaven of North Chase.

She was born April 30, 1925 in Chinquapin to the late Roland Vance and Gladys Mae Savage Thigpen. She was preceded in death by one great granddaughter; three brothers and two sisters.

Mrs. Griffin is survived by her children, Diane Lee and her husband, Albert, of Rocky Point, Shirley G. Wood and her husband, Douglas N., of Wallace, Joseph B. "Buddy" Griffin, Jr. and Janis C. Rochelle and her husband, Jimmy, both of Wilmington; grandchildren, Angie Lee, David Lee, Rev. Ricky N. Wood, Michael D. Wood, Gina Wyatt, April Terry, Brent Griffin, Allen Rochelle, and Kimberly Rochelle; ten great grandchildren; sister, Annie Boone of Burgaw and several nieces and nephews.

Effie Mae loved her family dearly and was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was an independent, hard working, outspoken lady who through out her life cared for and helped others. She loved the outdoors; growing and sharing flowers. Remembered are her steadfast faith, lively personality and warm heart. Treasured memories will always remain in our hearts.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with her grandson, The Rev. Ricky N. Wood, and The Rev. Rob Strickland officiating.

Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Park.

Casketbearers will be Michael Wood, Brent Griffin, Allen Rochelle, Jimmy Rochelle, Allen Boone and Perry Smith. Honorary bearers will be Douglas Wood and Albert Lee.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw and at other times will be at the home of Janis and Jimmy Rochelle in Wilmington and the home of Shirley and Douglas Wood in Wallace.

Condolences may be sent to www.quinnmcgowen.com

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw.