Elsie Jane Austin Griffith, 87, of Covington, died Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Carillion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke.

Elsie was born April 7, 1936, on Teaberry Road near Ronceverte WV, a daughter of the late Henry William and Rachel Yates Austin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Eldridge Griffith and one brother, Robert Lee Austin.

Mrs. Griffith attended Bluefield Business College and worked at several clerical jobs over the years, including at the Greenbrier and at various doctor’s offices in the area. She enjoyed traveling, crafts, gardening, reading, chocolate, and people. She loved talking and listening to new and old friends alike.

Surviving are her children, Stanley Griffith of Manassas, and Donna Griffith Shewmake of Henrico; two grandchildren, Megan Coles Shewmake of Austin, TX, and Tyler Lewis Shewmake of Richmond; two sisters, Emily Austin Badra and her husband, Joe of Coconut Creek, FL and Connie Austin Murphy and her husband Donald of York, PA; numerous nieces and nephews; and many others who lovingly called her “Aunt Elsie”.

In accordance with her wishes, her body has been cremated.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Faith Baptist Church in Covington, with the Rev. Andy Bellanger officiating. The family will receive their friends from 9:30 AM until service time at the church.

Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with overseeing arrangements.

Those wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.