Winifred Ann Griffin

Ocala - Winifred Ann Bishop Griffin, 85, passed away on August 12, 2021. She was born June 9, 1936, in Birmingham, AL. Ann was preceded in death by her father, Marvin David Bishop, and her mother, Winifred Laatsch Bishop. She was a daughter, a sister, a devoted mother, and a beloved "granny."

Ann is survived by her five children; Barbara Ann Griffin, Karen Griffin Hollon (Rand), William J. Griffin, Jr. (Beth), Michael David Griffin, and Elizabeth Griffin Henson, her seven grandchildren; William "Bill" Hollon (Dana), Samuel Hollon (Kimberly), Valerie Turner (Joe), Katheryn "Kate" Griffin, William "Will" Joseph Griffin III, Lewis Turner Henson, and Breanna Henson, and her siblings; brother, Marvin David Bishop, and sister, Virginia Bishop Heaton, alongside their beloved families.

Originally from Birmingham, Ann graduated from Woodlawn High School and attended the University of Alabama, where she met her former spouse William J Griffin. Together they moved to Huntsville, Alabama, raised five children, all of whom had the very great fortune of having her as a mother. Her love for her children was unwavering, unconditional, and through achievements or failures, she was their constant. Renowned throughout her life for her generous spirit: there was always a party at her house, more was always merrier, birthdays were special, and Christmas was her favorite time of the year.

As her children grew up, started new careers, and raised families of their own, Ann was always "home." When her first grandchild was born, she moved to Ocala, Florida, where she embraced her new role as grandmother, her new neighborhood, and her community. Always willing to lend a hand, share a meal or attend a high school sporting event, she was so well-loved by her grandchildren's friends that she soon became "Granny" to all who knew her.

Ann's grace and her beautiful sense of style were evident to all, but she is most remembered for her sense of humor, her wit, and her ability to tell tall tales. She was an avid reader, a great storyteller, and "never knew a stranger" - as every cashier, waiter, and unsuspecting shopper from Huntsville to Atlanta to Ocala can confirm.

Winifred Ann Bishop Griffin was elegant, stylish, and beautiful inside and out. She was funny, witty, snarky, and fun. How lucky we were to have her in our lives; she will be missed each and every day.

Memorial service will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, August 21, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church, 1126 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, with Pastor Anne Fuquay officiating. We encourage attendance virtually so the service can be viewed live via https://www.facebook.com/groups/564158118050310

Please follow COVID protocols, wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Arrangements are under the care of Countryside Funeral Home, Anthony, FL.