of Little Rock, AR
November 30, 1968 - June 29, 2022
Melissa ''Missy'' Oden Griffin, age 53, was called to her Heavenly Home on June 29, 2022 following a long battle against breast cancer. Our sweet Missy displayed bravery and a great attitude during this journey, which was an inspiration to many. A lifelong resident of Little Rock, Missy was known for the love of her family and friends, her generosity and her compassion. Missy was a devoted Christian and attended Church at Westrock Baptist. She loved her Church family dearly.
Missy loved her pets and made sure that wayward animals had a great home. She loved her rescue beagle, Colt, who was a constant companion during her illness and he never left her side.
Missy loved to travel and enjoy life. The beach was one of her favorite destinations where she enjoyed downtime with her family, the sun, sand and overall beach life. Another one of her favorite destinations was New Orleans, where she enjoyed the live music and great food. Music was a great love of hers. She enjoyed going to live music venues and concerts with family and friends.
Accompanying Missy on these adventures was always Lisa, who is her aunt but really, they were more like twins. Where you saw one, you would always see the other. Their special bond is exemplified by Lisa's ''two peas in a pod'' necklace.
Missy had many friends who loved her. Her unselfish nature endeared her to her friends and made them feel special. Her friends would say she never met a stranger and will miss her dearly.
Missy loved her career in the insurance business which included claims, underwriting, sales and marketing. She was employed by several large carriers and brokers in the span of her career.
Missy walked in beauty. In a word, Missy loved. Her love will be her legacy. ''Let the power of your love change the world, but never let the problems of this world change the beauty of your love''
Missy is survived by her loving parents, Norman and Diane Oden; her aunt, Lisa Wood and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Duane Griffin.
The family would like to thank her caregivers during this journey and request that any donations be made to Little Rock Animal Village and Sherwood Animal Shelter.
Sign Guestbook
35 Condolence(s)
Sharlene Jones-Moshi
Friday, July 8, 2022
Wanted to give my condolences to Diane and Norman. We were long time neighbors on Taylor Loop and Mom babysit Missy. I did get the chance to visit with Missy about 10 years ago and she was still just as beautiful inside and out. I have fond memories of our time on the Loop. Bernice (Mom) wanted me to give her condolences as well. God give you comfort during this difficult time.
Dennis Griffin
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
We will miss you dearly, Missy. You were my first sister in law and loved my brother Duane till he passed. I am sad you are gone from us here, but happy that you are healed now and back together with Duane.
Debbie McAnally
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
I had the joy of knowing Melissa through my business. We became friends almost instantly. We talked of God, faith, trust, and just living life every day to the fullest in the middle of the shop. She was a huge supporter, and more importantly she was my friend. Her unwavering trust in God, and the grace and faith with which she endured her journey, was an inspiration I will never forget. I will forever miss her smile and presence in my life.
Shelby Schnabel
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
I am going to deeply miss my loving Aunt Missy. She was a wonderful person. Glad she is with my Uncle Duane now though
Greg Stecks
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
I will always remember how welcoming Missy was when i went to work for West Rock Baptist. Missy made me feel like i was part of family without even exchanging any words previously. She was direct, cool, and from what i have learned, a very strong person. I will miss her. And my heart goes out to her loving parents , Norman And Diane, who Also made me feel welcome at West Rock Baptist. Even though i have only known them for a few years, I feel like I have known them all my life. May you Rest in Peace with God now Missy. your friend, Greg.
Rita Jones
Wednesday, July 6, 2022
I'm truly sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you. She was a beautiful soul. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
With Love, Rita Jones
Doyle and Theresa Oden
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
We also had the fortune of being Aunt and Uncle to our beautiful Missy. She was so kind and was so strong which allowed Norman and Diane to be strong too. They took such good care of Missy during her struggle. We love all of them and will miss our sweet Missy. Their faith and trust in God and being a child of God was a blessing to all. Prayers are with y’all now and to comeâ¤ï¸â¤ï¸
Patty Reed
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
So sorry for your loss. Praying for comfort during this time
Carole and Ted kozak
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
Norman, Diane, Lisa and Sam , we are so extremely sad about your loss. Missy showed us all what faith looked like in a trial. She never once became bitter or angry.she never once questioned God throughout her cancer journey. She walked through the entire journey with grace and dignity. Always saying that sometimes bad things happen to good people also that God had never promised us an easy life. She showed everyone what it looked like to trust in God no matter the circumstances. This is not the end . We do get to have a reunion with her again one day.
Becky Bearden
Tuesday, July 5, 2022
Mrs Diane and Mr Norman, I can’t begin to tell you how tell you how sorry I am for the loss of your sweet Missy. No parent should ever bury their child. Both of you are in my prayers. I love you both so much.
Mike and Sandra Fletcher
Monday, July 4, 2022
Diane, Norman, and Lisa,
We are saddened to hear about the loss of Missy. I know she took a part of your heart with you. I pray you find peace in knowing she is now pain free. May the memories of the love she had for all of you bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Becky baltz
Monday, July 4, 2022
Missy, you are so loved and missed by your family, your extended family’s, and your friends. I pray that your love for them will make their sorrow more bearable. Diane, Norman, Lisa. Saying I am sorry for your loss seems insignificant and I wish I could do more. Love you guys. Lots of prayers
Patti Frazier
Monday, July 4, 2022
Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Patti
Wain and Susan Bradley
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Norman and Diane,
Lifting you both up for God's comfort and peace in the loss of your beloved daughter, Missy. We love you both and will be in prayer for you. Remembering Their Beautiful Song
God gives every person their own unique song-it's the one that will play their entire life long,
Through the love that they give and the gifts that they share,
Through the memories they make
and the dreams that they dare...
It's a song filled with beauty and day-to-day grace, that plays through until they see God face to face.
A song that is heard in the heart, loud and clear- A song, if we listen,
we'll always still hear.
What a beautiful way to celebrate them-through the song they lived, the song you'll carry forever in your heart.
(writer unknown)
With our deepest sympathy, prayers, and much love to you both,
Wain and Susan Bradley
Billy Davis
Sunday, July 3, 2022
I love Missy as well as Lisa some of the best times and memories in my life was spent with these two even though Lisa and I were a couple for many years Missy was a big part of life and always there we lived side by side in apartments when both girls left the nest Lisa and I on one side Duane and Missy next door and those times are the most cherished in my life to have shared...always loved never forgotten.to Norm and Di thank you and much love to both .I have all three of you in my prayers
Valerie Stevens
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Missy was so strong and fought so hard. She was a true warrior. Her strength and positive attitude I always admired. She will be greatly missed. Norman, Diane & Lisa my deepest condolences to you. I wish I was there to give you all a Hug. I Love you all so much. May Missys sweet soul Rest In Peace🕊
Ann Caudle
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Our wonderful Missy got the healing i have prayed for for yrs. I was praying for her earthly healing but our heavenly Father had other plans for her. She will be greatly missed. It was a privilege to be her aunt for 53 yrs.
Jamie Hawkins
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Diane and Norman ~ Sending love, hugs, and prayers of peace and understanding during this difficult time. I will always cherish the memories I have of Missy growing up and rejoice in the fact that she has won the ultimate award. What a reunion it was with Missy’s husband, Mama Jean, and my Brooks. 💔
Lisa ~ I love you so much! You and Missy were the sisters I never had, instead of my cousins. May God wrap His loving arms around you and provide strength during this difficult time. 💔
Tommy Howard
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Diane and Norman. My deepest condolences to you and family. Missy was a strong lady that was focused. All the time. My prayer is you’ll have lots of memories that will comfort you during this time.
Tommy
Shanna King
Sunday, July 3, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss! Missy was truly one of a kind and her love for everyone and her faith shined through her. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Michelle and Tracey Jones
Sunday, July 3, 2022
Norman and Diane,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Missy was a beautiful person inside and out . Her love of the Lord shined brightly in the way she radiated his grace and mercy during her battle with cancer. She was so strong and courageous and will have the crown of life with her Heavenly Father. Praying for a peace that surpasses understanding for you and the rest of your family. Psalms 34:18 The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Robin Finkbeiner
Saturday, July 2, 2022
My deepest Condolences. Sending lots of prayers and love to all.
Susan Cockrell
Saturday, July 2, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Melissa over the years at Hanover and Stephen’s. She was a true professional and a pleasure to work with. She will be missed.
Mike Lewis
Saturday, July 2, 2022
Many prayers and may the Lord be with family and friends during this time.
Tanzer C Lorio
Saturday, July 2, 2022
I didn't know her but from what I just read, it's no doubt she's in heaven. She lived a good life and left a mark off love on so many. May God strengthen her family and friends during this time of bereavement. Rest in peace Missy.
Madison Monroe
Saturday, July 2, 2022
My heartfelt condolences to Missy's family. She was pure joy and love and will be missed by everyone who had the privilege to know her. Godspeed Missy. xoxo
Scott Kirkpatrick
Saturday, July 2, 2022
She was very sweet and loving. I was much younger than her and didn't see her that much, but every time I saw her she was happy even when she was hurting. She will forever missed.
Linda and Tom Case
Saturday, July 2, 2022
To know Missy has been a great joy. Always the first one to give a hug and always there with her pretty smile and a laugh no mater what physical pain she was enduring, Missy has always been a joy to all of us and now that joy is present in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Rosalie Patton
Saturday, July 2, 2022
Diane & Norman, it is my prayer for you both that God’s loving arms and ALL the wonderful memories u have of your precious Missy, will sustain u here on earth until u r reunited with her in Heaven. Oh imagine what a reunion that will be!!!! That’s what keeps me going & I pray it will u too. I love u bothðŸ™
Tammy Harris Dillon
Saturday, July 2, 2022
I have wonderful memories of our gang of girls running around in our twenties going to concerts, to Oaklawn, dancing and just enjoying being together. Missy was always game for any shenanigans we wanted to get into. She truly lived life well. I pray you find peace and comfort in loving memories.
Forrest and Marlana
Friday, July 1, 2022
Norman, Diane, Lisa, and Sam. Forrest and I love all of you so much and we loved Missy so much. I have basically known her my whole life and I will forever be grateful for these last years I go to see her again through church. She was such an inspiration and example of faith that we all aspire to have. We will miss Missy so much but we are so thankful she is not in anymore pain.â¤ï¸â¤ï¸Love, Forrest and Marlana Grimmett
Christy ( Eason ) Combee
Friday, July 1, 2022
Norman and Diana I am so sorry to hear of Missy passing, but just keep in mind that God has his loving arms wrapped around the both of you during this difficult time. I am praying for you both and wish I could be there Thurday, but I have rejoined the work force and I will be working. I love you both.
Carolyn Brooks
Friday, July 1, 2022
My heart breaks for all of you. I love you very much and Missy was such a sweet girl. She is in the arms of God now and no more pain. Praying for God to give you peace, she is cured.
Marilyn Ballard Logan
Friday, July 1, 2022
Lisa, Diane and Norman,
She was a brave fighter but now she is resting in the arms of her Savior. Prayers for all of you as you adjust to life without her.
Love and Prayers,
Marilyn
Melissa Miller
Friday, July 1, 2022
Our love and prayers are with you Diane, Norman, Lisa, and all the family at this heartbreaking time. We love you. Missy M. and Rita.