Judith Corinne Griffiths
March 8, 2019
Judith (Judy) Corinne Griffiths passed away peacefully on March 1, 2019. She was born on June 25, 1939 in Butte Montana to Albert and Corinne Leybold. She attended Girls Central in Butte and obtained her GED later in life.
On October 28, 1963 Judy married Lyle Griffiths in Butte Montana at her parent’s home. Together they raised 8 children and worked many different jobs to support their family. Mom spent most of her time caring for a blended family and keeping house when Lyle was off working his multiple jobs. She was also a partner with Lyle in their various occupational adventures. They provided janitorial services for Bergum Drug, 4B’s Restaurant, Pacific Hide and Fur, and other establishments around Helena. One of their many endeavors included Hostess Bakery distribution for Helena and East Helena. Also included a vending business, where they provided sandwiches and fruit to Carroll College, Helena Vo-tech, and many state buildings. Later in life mom worked at Capital Sunset Apartments, Waterford Retirement Center, and the Masonic Home.
Mom loved to crochet, knit, embroider, and read in her spare time. She loved to play cards and rummy was her favorite. She also taught her daughters how to cook, crochet, knit, and embroider. She was so busy when her children were little that she seldom found time for herself as her family came first.
Mom had a soft heart for animals and adopted two cats from the neighbor. She fed and housed the cats for the last 7 years. She was sure they always were taken care of and spoiled them with treats.
Mom and dad loved gardening and horticulture. Their love for trees and gardening began when they were first married. Their first home (7 acres) was completely covered in trees. They involved their children in the caring of the trees with watering detail using buckets. When they moved to the Helena Valley, they planted flowers and trees on many of the 20 acres.
Judy is survived by her children, Debbie Barnes of Butte, Deb (Larry) Redmond of East Helena, Cindy Griffiths of Las Vegas NV, Kim (Ron) Hamm of White Sulphur Springs, Koni Griffiths of Santa Rosa CA, Karmen (Kevin) Millhouse of Helena, and daughter-in-law Janie McElhenney of Coeur d’Alene ID, 18 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. She is survived by her brother-in-law Alan (Donna) Griffiths of Helena, sister-in-law Margo Munson of East Helena, sister-in-law Kay Leybold of Ashland OR, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Corinne Leybold; husband Lyle Griffiths; sisters Jeanine Griffith and Barb Moodry; brother Bill Leybold; son’s Kris Griffiths and Kenny McElhenney; brother-in-law’s Stan Munson and Bob Moodry; and nephew Brad Griffiths.
A social gathering to celebrate Judy’s life will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 8th in the social hall at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. In lieu of flowers memorials in Judy’s name are suggested to the Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604 or to Helena Food Share, P.O. Box 943, Helena, MT 59624-0943.
Service Schedule
Social Gathering
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Friday March 8, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Social Gathering
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Friday March 8, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
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Ms. Thomas says
I am so sorry for your loss, I know this is very difficult time. I recently loss my parents so I understand what your going through. A scripture that has always given me comfort and strength is Isaiah 41:10, I hope you have time to read it. Again, I am so sorry for your loss, and I will keep your family in my prayers.
Jack Norris says
Judy was a wonderful woman and a very good friend may she rest in peace.
Cari Hutchison says
Aunt Judy’s passing was so unexpected, but I have no doubt she’s celebrating her reunion with loved ones in heaven. I can still hear her infectious laugh and feel her calm and gentle spirit. I’m sorry she’s left us so soon.
The only comfort is knowing we’ll all be reunited again in paradise. Praying for faith and happy memories to bring the family comfort through this difficult time.