Obituary of Gloria Ward Griffith

Gloria Ward Griffith of State College passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. She was born in the Bellefonte Hospital 83 years ago.

A 1955 graduate of State College High School, she attended but did not graduate from Penn State, where she majored in art with hopes of moving on to a renowned art school. Her marriage to her husband Riggs and the birth of their three children put those plans aside. As a stay-at-home mom, she and her husband raised their children, instilling in them a strong work ethic and the need for a balance of family, culture and education.

Gloria's interest in art began with extensive drawing and painting between the ages six and eight. Her development of a manner to express herself artistically was encouraged by teachers at every level. As the children became more self-sufficient Gloria returned more to her artistic endeavors, including studying with Eugene Leake, a nationally known painter and former director of Maryland Institute of Art. She also worked as a visual merchandiser.

When the family moved to Tampa, FL, Gloria painted full-time with her own studio, gallery representation and market success.

Aside from her art she worked thousands of hours as a hospital volunteer, gardening, enjoying beach trips, reading and wintering in Florida.

Gloria is survived by her husband Riggs; and her children, Deirdre of Asheville, NC; Guy (Kelly) of Richmond, VA and Dorsey Reeder (Mike) of Kansas City, KS. She also has four grandchildren: Darrien, Gabrielle, Whitney and Mary Evelyn.

Any services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers please contribute to the Bellefonte Art Museum Endowment Fund at Centre Foundation.