Mary (Byrne) Griffith

Mary Griffith (Byrne), loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, 76, passed away on Tuesday, March 7, 2017.

A resident of Belmar, NJ, she was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ. Mary attended Sacred Heart Catholic High School where she met her husband, the late Robert G. Griffith. The Griffith’s were employed under O’Donnell Insurance Agency upon which they inherited and ran the company for over 30 years. Mary started as a file clerk and rose to become an owner, growing the company with Robert and their sons. She found joy in helping the many customers local to Elizabeth and all over New Jersey with their insurance needs. One of her many spirited quotes included, “Don’t eat, pay your insurance!”. The O’Donnell Insurance Agency was a source of passion for Mary and a true family business. Among her children, nieces and nephews, Mary led her staff with patience, humor and pride.

Mary’s, love of family, laugh, and sarcastic sense of humor touched all who knew her. She was marked by true resilience and stick-to-itiveness.  A pillar to her family and friends, Mary was counted on by all to lend a loving hand, and even a sour rebuttal when needed.

A crossword puzzle, Dunkin Donuts coffee, being by the beach with her dog and a visit from her friends and family was all she needed. She never asked for much, and to ask her, she had it all.

Mary will be remembered for her loyalty, fierce love of her children and eternal gratitude.

Mary is survived by her 5 children Robert (Daria), Joseph (Barbara), Ned, John and Emily, and 8 grandchildren.

Also surviving are her brother Jack (Joan) and sister Frances and their children. 

She was predeceased by her husband Robert Griffith in 2001, her daughter MaryEllen Fiore in 2011, brother Daniel in 2010, and brother Thomas in 1976.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay respects at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home, 582 Springfield Ave., Westfield, NJ www.higginsandbonner.com on Friday, March 10, from 4-8pm. A Funeral Mass is held at St. Genevieve’s RC Church in Elizabeth, NJ on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 10am. 

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