Janice M. Griffith's Obituary
Janice Mae “Teeney” Griffith, 87, of Seaford, Delaware, passed away peacefully at her home on April 17, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.
Born on October 28, 1938, in Galestown, Maryland, Janice was the daughter of the late Elizabeth and Marion Robinson. She grew up in Galestown before building a beautiful life alongside her husband, Rawlins “Ronnie” Griffith, the love of her life, on Hearns Pond in Seaford, Delaware. Together, they shared a deep and lasting love and worked side by side in their flour mill and parts store. Ronnie preceded her in death in 1993, a loss she carried with enduring love and strength.
Known affectionately as “Teeney,” Janice brought warmth, humor, and heart into every room she entered. She had a profound sense of humor, a quiet strength, and a deeply caring nature that made everyone feel like family. Above all else, she was devoted—to her husband, her family, and the life they built together.
Janice is survived by her loving daughter, Donna Vanderwende (James). She was a proud and cherished grandmother to Wendy Peterman (Barry), Jesse Vanderwende (Taylor), Cody Vanderwende (Morgan), and Will Vanderwende. She was a deeply adored great-grandmother to Bennett, Brooks, Haddie, and Lainey Vanderwende.
She is also survived by her siblings, Donald Robinson, Robert Robinson, and Darlene Knowles, and many beloved nieces and nephews: Denny Griffith, Kathy Kerley, Alan Robinson, Teri O’Bier, Tina Knowles, Sean Knowles, and Michelle Russum. She held a special place in her heart for Michelle’s daughters, Katelan Russum and Kalie Robinson, who thought of her as an aunt.
In addition to her parents, Janice was preceded in death by her husband, Rawlins “Ronnie” Griffith, and her son, Michael Griffith.
Faith and community were important parts of Janice’s life. She was a devoted member of Victory Baptist Church, where she loved attending Sunday services. She was also a member of the Eastern Star and the Moose Lodge of Seaford. In her earlier years, she found joy in traveling, spending time at the beach with family, and creating memories with friends. She especially loved to cook, often bringing people together around her table.
More than anything, Janice found her greatest joy in her family. Whether as a wife, mother, grandmother, or great-grandmother, she poured her heart into those she loved. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she created, the laughter she shared, and the unwavering love she gave so freely.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to her caregivers, Lisa Willey and Amy Rigney, for their compassion and dedication. A special thank you is also extended to VITAS Healthcare, especially her primary nurse, Danielle Hayes and Deedra Conquest, for the exceptional care and comfort they provided.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church (7314 Cannon Road, Bridgeville, Delaware). A graveside service will follow.
Janice will be remembered for her laughter, her strength, and the deep love she had for her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to be cherished by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to VITAS Healthcare or to Victory Baptist Church. Contributions may be sent to the address below:
VITAS Healthcare
30265 Commerce Drive, Suite 202
Millsboro, Delaware 19966
or
Victory Baptist Church
7314 Cannon Road
Bridgeville, DE 19933
Please sign the tribute wall located on this website.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE HAVE ALL FLOWERS DELIVERED ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2026 BY 3 PM.. TO OUR WATSON YATES FUNERAL HOME IN SEAFORD.
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