Jean Marie Griffin

Jean Marie Griffin, born on August 8, 1954, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, left this world on December 7, 2025, in Titusville, Florida. She was a remarkable woman whose warmth, laughter, and dedication touched the lives of those around her. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Jean lived her life with deep love for her family and an unwavering commitment to all that she valued.

Jean devoted over 20 years of her life to the United Space Alliance at Kennedy Space Center, where she served as a documentation writer. Her remarkable career culminated in her retirement in 2011, coinciding with the end of the NASA Shuttle Program. In recognition of her hard work and vital contributions to flight safety and mission success, Jean was awarded the prestigious Silver Snoopy Award, honoring her outstanding service to the program.

She earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Northern Iowa in 1986. This accomplishment served as a foundation for a life dedicated to nurturing and supporting her family.

Jean's greatest pride came from being a devoted wife to her husband, Don Griffin, and a loving mother to her children, Angela and Jason Griffin. Her heart swelled with joy as she embraced being a grandmother to Hunter and Hayden. Whether through heartfelt conversations or special trips, she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, often going out of her way to create memorable experiences. From crafting holiday traditions that made Christmas magical to preparing for road trips, she filled her family's life with moments of joy and laughter. Jean's sentimental nature shone brightly during holidays.  She wore her heart on her sleeve and would cry just about every time a family member was going to part for a long time or distant location.  

One of her greatest joys was her love of reading, which led her to build an expansive library of books. She took delight in the simple pleasures of life—gatherings with family, fishing and camping in Iowa post-retirement, and engaging in craft classes with Angela. Even her gambling trips with family and her dear friend Carrie added laughter and joy to her life, reflecting her spirited personality and love for fun.

To know Jean was to understand her love for God, her family, and her dog Gizmo, who was always by her side. A welcoming soul with a gentle spirit, she put others before herself, her laughter resonating in colorful tones that could light up any room. She cherished long talks with friends and family, offering kindness, support, and understanding to all who entered her life.

Jean Marie Griffin is preceded in death by her beloved father, Louis Shimpach, and her cherished friend, Carrie Friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and memorable moments that will never fade. Jean is survived by her loving husband, Don; her children, Angela and Jason, along with daughter-in-law Khrissy; her grandchildren, Hunter and Hayden; her mother, Virginia Shimpach; and her sisters Nancy Dederich and Sharon Shannon.

In sum, Jean Marie Griffin will always be remembered and loved. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with kindness, laughter, and unforgettable memories, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.