Debra Lynn Griffin

Debra Lynn Griffin, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away July 30, 2026, in Braxton, Mississippi. Born on March 29, 1962, in Biloxi, Mississippi, Debra—affectionately known as Debbie to many—lived a life marked by kindness, devotion, and joy.

Throughout her 64 years, Debbie never met a stranger and was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She literally lit up a room when she walked in. Her gentle nature and ever-present warmth made lasting impressions on friends, family, and even those she encountered only briefly. Debbie’s ability to welcome all into her heart and home was matched only by her unwavering love for her family.

Debbie was the cherished wife of 44 years to Jesse Griffin, with whom she created a lifetime of memories. She was a devoted mother to her daughter Candice Ashley (Justin) and her son Clint Griffin (Ronni), always ensuring their lives were filled with support, love, and encouragement. She also loved her “favorite son-in-law”, Justin, beyond measure. And recently welcomed a new daughter-in-law, Ronni, into the family.

Her role as “DeeGee” was her greatest joy. She was the loving grandmother to Kayne, Kruz, Kamp, Kolt, and Kara. Debbie took immense pride in attending every sporting event and milestone for her children and grandchildren—never missing a game, always present in the stands, cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm. Family gatherings were a highlight for Debbie, especially Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, and she delighted in preparing meals from her mother’s cherished recipes, filling each occasion with warmth, laughter, and delicious food.

Debbie loved Jesus and found comfort and purpose in her spiritual journey. She was always praying for others and lifting them up. Music also played a significant role in her happiness; she was a true concert connoisseur, having attended over 100 concerts in her lifetime. Her favorite, of course, Bon Jovi!! She mostly enjoyed waking up at her beautiful cabin, looking out over the lake, and being in the presence of her family.

Professionally, Debbie dedicated 29 years as a Customer Service Representative for BellSouth, bringing compassion, patience, and a strong work ethic to her career. Her genuine care for others shone through, endearing her to colleagues and customers alike.

Debbie is preceded in death by her father, Ted Thornton, and her mother, Lynn Sullivan Thornton. Their memory remained a source of strength for her, and their traditions live on through her enduring family bonds.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Jesse Griffin; her loving children, Candice Ashley (Justin) and Clint Griffin (Ronni); and her treasured grandchildren, Kayne Ashley, Kruz Ashley, Kamp Ashley, Kolt Ashley, Kara Ashley, and Kaili Dyson. She loved her cousins, sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews more than they will ever know.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Debbie's remarkable life at a visitation on August 4, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home Florence, located at 2576 US 49, Florence, MS 39073. A memorial service will follow at the same location at 2:00 p.m.

Debra Lynn Griffin leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness. Her unwavering dedication to family, her boundless generosity, and her joyful spirit will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.