Elder Sadie Mae Griffin

Sadie Mae Hampton Griffin was born in Greenwood, SC on February 18, 1942 to the union of Frank Hampton and Hester Palmore Hampton.  From her earliest years, she was nurtured in faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to service - qualities that would define her life’s work and witness.

In 1960, Sadie graduated from Brewer High School, marking the beginning of a journey that would carry her far beyond her hometown.  The following year, in 1961, she relocated to Richmond, VA alongside her sister (Marion) traveling by train to her Aunt Sallie and Uncle Edward Gray’s home.  Richmond would become the place where Sadie’s calling, education, and professional service fully blossomed.

On April 13, 1962, Sadie was united in matrimony to Warren Griffin.  From this loving union, eight children were born, forming the foundation of a family rooted in love, faith, and perseverance.

Sadie was deeply devoted to her faith and answered God’s call early in life.  In 1977, she was licensed as a Minister at Jerusalem Holy Church.  Her commitment to spiritual leadership continued to grow, and in 1990 she was licensed as an Evangelist at the same church.  In 1993, she reached another sacred milestone when she was ordained as an Elder at New Jerusalem ICM, faithfully serving God’s people with wisdom, compassion, and humility.  She served her church in many capacities including Deaconess and communion orchestrator, choir member and President of the widely renowned Chamblin Concert Ensemble, and examiner for New Jerusalem ICM candidates for office of Elders and Deacons. 

Alongside her ministry, Sadie pursued higher education with determination and grace.  In 1985, at the age of 43, she graduated from Virginia Union University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work with a minor in Gerontology - reflecting her heart for advocacy, service, and care for others.

In 1987, Sadie began her career with the Department of Social Services, where she served diligently and compassionately for nearly two decades.  She retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and impact.  In 2007, she continued her service through employment with Chester YMCA for 10 years, extending her care and community involvement beyond retirement. 

Called Aunt Sadie by many, she was known for her cooking including the delicious hot rolls and famous triple layer pineapple cake.  If you came to her house you were going to eat.  Above everything else, she loved God and would get happy talking about her Lord.  A praise would often break out in the kitchen while she was cooking. 

Sadie was preceded in death by Warren Griffin, Sr., her beloved best friend and sister, Elder Marion Hampton Bryant, and her cherished daughter, Michelle Renee Griffin.  Celebrating her victorious transition are her devoted children; Sharon Griffin Schofield, Warren Griffin, Jr. (Rochelle), Elder Christina Harrison (Ronald), Dr. Gwyn Griffin, Irvin Griffin (Shanice), Nolan M. Griffin (Tevya), and Dr. Berton Griffin (Zaqua); a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; 2 nephews, Courtney Bryant (Sherrill) and Curtis Bryant (Pam); 2 nieces, Tracey Williams (Roy) and Cynthia Phillips (Brandon); and numerous loving family members and dedicated lifelong friends, including Elder Bernard C. Lambert, Sr. (and family) and Rev. Leonard Davis; devoted Godchildren, Harold Lilly, Allison Lilly, Byron Lambert, Elder Sharvette Mitchell, Deacon Preston Edwards and Elder Roderick A. Carroll.

Sadie Griffin’s life is a powerful testament to faith in action - expressed through ministry, education, public service, and unwavering love for her family and community.  She will be remembered for her strength, perseverance, servant’s heart, and devotion to God.  Her legacy will continue to live on through the many lives she touched and the generation she inspired.

A viewing will be held from 1 pm - 6 pm on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at the Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service Chapel, 5004 Nine Mile Road, Richmond, VA.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Fountain Worship Center, 3800 E. Broad Rock Rd., Richmond, VA.

Interment will follow the funeral service at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. 

The family is receiving services of comfort from Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service, 5004 Nine Mile Road, Richmond, VA.