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Brian Griffiths - Class of 1975

Submitted by Fran Olson Gustafson 1965 <fgustafson917@gmail.com> on 12/Feb/2026
71.223.130.53

Message:

In loving memory of Brian James Griffiths, August 20, 1957 - January 31, 2026

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Brian James Griffiths, cherished husband of Lisa-Marie Griffiths. Brian, 68, died at home due to complications from mesothelioma cancer.

Brian was born to Raymond and Adele Griffiths. He grew up in the Bronx and Newburgh, NY before joining the U.S. Coast Guard. While stationed in Los Angeles, he was lucky enough to break his elbow and meet Lisa-Marie, his Navy nurse, partner, and love of his life. They married on October 9, 1982 at the chapel at Quantico, VA and spent the next 43 happy years together.

Brian worked as a motorcycle mechanic after leaving the service, and moved to Connecticut with Lisa-Marie. He discovered a late (but not too late) passion for learning, earning his associates, bachelors, and masters degrees. As a student, he enjoyed the mentorship of Dr. Andy Paterna (MCC) , Dr. Charlie Chatterson (ECSU), and Dr. Linda Pescatello (UConn). From learning came teaching, and he served as an adjunct instructor at ECSU, where he shared his wisdom, expertise, and care with his own students.

Brian and Lisa-Marie cherished their time wherever they lived and traveled – Connecticut, South Africa, and eventually, Virginia. Known affectionately as "Unc", he is survived and adored by Lisa-Marie, his mother Adele, brothers Ray and Chris, godsons Blake and Brian Sullivan and their wives Marsha and Blair and children, and many others, who, as much as they miss him, are better for having known him. He will be laid to rest on February 17th, in the same chapel in Quantico where he and Lisa-Marie began their wonderful journey together