Shirley Griffith, executive secretary

Shirley (Thomas) Griffith, 83, of Ridgefield, a former lifelong Stamford resident and retired 40-year City of Stamford municipal employee, died on Friday morning, May 7, 2004 at Danbury Hospital due to respiratory failure.

Shirley was born in Stamford, August 8, 1920, a daughter of the late Harry and Emma (Purdy) Thomas. She attended Stamford schools and graduated from Stamford High School.

She worked as a secretary for Yale and Town, the lock company. Then, in 1950, she became a municipal employee of the City of Stamford and held various positions throughout the 40 years of service, including executive secretary to the head of the Dept. of Public Works and administrative assistant to the Commissioner of Health. She retired in 1990.

In early years, she enjoyed horseback riding, skiing, skating, swimming, and always loved nature and wildlife. She was an advocate for preservation of open space and the protection of wildlife. For many years, she summered with her family at Oak Point on the St. Lawrence River. Her many nieces and nephews will always remember her easy laughter and loving companionship.

A resident of Ridgefield since November 2003, she was a member of the First Congregational Church of Stamford.

A son Thomas F. Griffith, his wife Karen of Ridgefield and their three children, Dale, Renee and Wade and a brother Everett F. Thomas of Oak Point, Hammond NY survive her. Her brothers Harry L. Thomas and Frederick J. Thomas predeceased her.

A Memorial Service will take place in the First Congregational Church, Stamford at a time to be announced.

The family will receive friends following the service.

Memorials contributions to the CT Humane Society, 701 Russell Road, Newington, CT 06111 would be greatly appreciated.

The Kane Funeral Home, 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield, CT is in charge of arrangements.