Ellen Marie Guy-Griffin

Ellen Marie Guy-Griffin

Affectionately known as Ms. Ellen, Ms. Griffin, and Sister

Ellen Marie Guy-Griffin, a beloved resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on June 3, 1966, to John R. Bankhead and Carnis O. Hall. The Sabbath of October 26, 2024, she returned home to eternal peace, cradled by the love of her family.

The legacy of Ms. Ellen’s life lives on in the hearts of her cherished family: her beloved daughter, Whitney (George III) Hunter; her devoted son, William (Marlena) Griffin III; her treasured granddaughters, Tsedae, A’Vonni, Na’omi, and Hera; her grandsons, No’ach, Heru, and Syre; her dear siblings (Michael, Monica, Diana, Denise), nieces, nephews, and to all those whose lives she touched and inspired to reach their highest potential.

Education was Ms. Ellen’s passion and gift. After graduating from J.W. Sexton High School in Lansing, Michigan, in 1984, she attended Grand Valley State University. She ultimately gained her Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Technology at Ferris State University, later continuing her studies in Pharmacy. Ms. Ellen shared her love for learning with her children, grandchildren, and countless others, offering support that nurtured their growth. A mentor by nature, she was a guiding light, offering gentle encouragement and wisdom to all who sought her guidance. 

For over 30 years, Ms. Ellen was a dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, having joined in 1993 at Ferris State University. Her loyalty, grace, and unwavering passion for sisterhood shone brightly in the roles she held, particularly as Historian. Through her work with the Ivylettes and the Fashionetta committees, she made an indelible mark on her sorority and sisters, embodying the ideals of AKA in every role she served.

Those who knew Ms. Ellen were captivated by her lively spirit and warm laughter. She took great pleasure in reading, engaging in heartfelt conversations, dancing, cooking, and exploring the world. Her sense of humor was unmatched; she asked questions that sparked curiosity and shared thoughts that stayed with others long after. A former colleague fondly reflected on her unwavering dedication to customer service, noting her kindness, efficiency, and rare need to ask for help—a testament to her resilience and strength. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, John R. Bankhead and Carnis O. Hall; her adopted mother, Edith Mae Guy; her precious daughter, Tiaya Lanette Guy-Griffin; her granddaughter, Marleyai Griffin; and her sister, Millicent Bankhead.

Ms. Ellen’s love, wisdom, and joyful spirit will forever live on in those she loved. Her memory remains a beacon of strength, guiding all who were blessed to know her.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Brown Hutcherson Ministries, 618 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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