Mildred "Mitzi" Inez Griggs, 89, of Port Neches, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 21, 2024, at Oak Grove Nursing Home in Groves. Born on September 13, 1935, in Monroe, Louisiana, she grew up in Winnfield, Louisiana, alongside her three older siblings, Percy Jr., Bobbie Nell, and Erma.
Mitzi's educational journey began at Winnfield High School, from which she graduated in 1953. She pursued further studies at Texas Women's University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics with a minor in chemistry. It was during her time at university, while playing tennis, that she met the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Ray Griggs. The couple married on August 27, 1955, and their love story unfolded as they moved to Port Neches the following year.
Throughout her life, Mitzi was a devoted homemaker, nurturing her family and creating a warm home. She occasionally took on the role of a substitute teacher and began working for Dr. St. Romain after her children graduated high school. Her commitment to community and faith was evident in her active membership at The First United Methodist Church in Port Neches, where she attended the Fidelis Sunday School Class. Additionally, Mitzi was involved with the Preceptor Epsilon Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, contributing to the vibrant community around her.
A remarkable athlete in her youth, Mitzi lettered in volleyball and basketball, serving as the captain of her basketball team that clinched the state championship. Her skills on the court earned her an all-state selection in basketball, a testament to her dedication and talent.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mitzi was known for her culinary prowess. An accomplished cook, she relished trying new recipes from various cultures, exposing her family to a myriad of cuisines. She balanced these domestic delights with her love for reading and playing cards. It was not uncommon for her to read two books simultaneously—one to herself and one aloud to Bob each night. Their afternoons were often spent engaged in card games, with Mitzi being an avid bridge player, participating in several bridge clubs.
Mitzi is survived by her beloved son, Robert Ray Griggs, Jr.; cherished grandchildren, Roman Benton and his wife Amanda; Mia Benton Ball and her husband Brian; Ali Benton Ansley and her husband Mark; and Derek Harper and his wife Shawn. She took immense joy in her great-grandchildren—Paul, Emma, Jude, and Lyla Benton; Benton, Brody, and Baylor Ball; Sophia and Ava Ansley; Wyatt, Charlie, and Sutton Harper.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred Louise (Gimber) Roberts and Percy Womack Roberts, Sr.; her daughter, Debra Griggs Benton; and her beloved husband, Robert Griggs, Sr.
The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Oak Grove Nursing Home and her caregiver, Carry for the love and support they provided Mitzi and her family.
A gathering on family and friends will be held Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Port Neches. A celebration of Mitzi's Life will begin at 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 25, 2024, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Port Neches. Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park.
Mitzi's warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her.