Joan Griffin Lewis

Joan Griffin Lewis, 86 years young, passed into the arms of the Lord on February 27, 2025, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Robert Lewis of West Columbia, her son, David Lewis and his wife Angie of Angleton, and her beloved grandson, Levi. She is survived by siblings Shirley Griffin of Pasadena, Maness Griffin, Jr. and wife Faye of Brazoria, Ray Dell Griffin and late-wife Frances of El Paso, Downey Griffin and wife Judy of Brazoria, Linda Brown and husband Bobby of Angleton, brother-in-law Delbert Whitt of West Columbia, and many precious nieces and nephews. Joan is also survived by her dear friend and angel on earth, Shirley Thomas of Sweeny. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Maness Griffin, Sr. and Mary Dee (Tinsley) Griffin, as well as her sister, Mary Lois (Griffin) Whitt.

Joan was born at home in West Columbia, Texas, in the oilfield house and remained a proud resident throughout her life. She enjoyed a fulfilling career, having spent 15 years of her life with Bob Barta Lumber Company in West Columbia, and then working at First Capital Bank in West Columbia. She dedicated another 22 years to Phillips 66 in Old Ocean, where she worked as an Analyst before retiring.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Joan was known for her warmth and affectionate personality. Described by her family as a caregiver and social butterfly, she effortlessly engaged in conversation with everyone she encountered and always lifted kindness to others. Family gatherings were highlighted by Joan’s delightful culinary creations, particularly her famous chocolate pies and banana pudding, which became a staple at every family event. She cherished spending time at her family home on the intercoastal waterway in Sargent, TX, and later in Port O'Connor, TX.

Joan was exceptionally skilled at keeping the roads hot with her daily trips to HEB or Walmart, but her numerous antique shopping road trips with her sisters were some of her all-time favorite memories, filled with laughter, great food and the thrill of finding hidden treasures – even though she probably already had one or two of those items at home. 

Joan had a special bond with her only grandson, Levi, who was indisputably the "Apple of her Eye." She adored him and celebrated his milestones with immense joy, always providing devoted support as he grew. Her penchant for daily spoiling earned her the title of being a fun Nana. 

Until her health conditions made it impossible, Joan was a long-standing member of First Baptist Church in West Columbia. She was a woman of unwavering belief and found peace in God’s promises of eternal life. She shared her faith by dedicating time to sing in the choir, spoil babies in the church nursery, teach Sunday School, and wherever else God called upon her to help.

Joan’s strong will to live, resolute faith in God, the love and prayers of family, friends and many supporters carried her as she navigated her journey through Alzheimer’s disease. Even when words became difficult, her love remained evident in every touch, every glance or blink of the eye, and every moment spent together. The illness took her memory, but it could never take away her loving spirit, her gentle smile, or the deep bond she shared with her family. She will always be remembered for the love she infused into the lives of those around her.

The family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff teams of Sodalis and Gentiva Hospice, as well as Shirley Thomas for their compassionate dedication and care for Joan. 

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:30 pm on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at C.T. Baker & Sons Funeral Home in West Columbia, Texas, followed by a graveside service at Old Columbia Cemetery beginning at 3:00 pm.

 Condolences may be left for the family at www.ctbakerfuneral.com