Obituary of Betty Griffo

Bertha “Betty” Griffo, 94, of Rome, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 17, 2022, St. Elizabeth’s Healthcare in Utica with her loving family by her side. Born in Rome on August 20, 1927, a daughter of the late Anthony and Rose (Lombino) Marino. On May 9, 1946, she was united in marriage to Joseph G. Griffo, a blessed union of 73 years until his passing on February 7, 2019. Betty worked as a seamstress at Lumas Manufacturing for 15 years. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church and the National Adoration Society. Betty was a devoted wife and mother who cared very deeply for and enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She always welcomed and was happy cooking and hosting for friends & family at her home. When she wasn't working on solving a word search puzzle, staying in "touch" was important to Betty. As a nonagenarian, she embraced, learned and liked using technology especially her iPhone 12 to communicate regularly with friends and loved ones both at home and internationally. People were always amazed at how sharp and easily she accepted and adapted to the use of technology. In addition, her church was important to her. She was a faith-filled prayer warrior who offered many prayerful intentions and rosaries on behalf of others in need and touched the lives of many. As a cancer survivor, she participated in and supported the Relay for Life. She was truly a selfless person. She is survived by her loving son and daughter-in-law, Senator Joseph and Lorraine Griffo; a sister, Marie Corzine; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Concetta Griffo, Rocco & Ida Griffo, Frank & Ginette Griffo; an aunt, Angeline Gotti; and several nieces, nephews and cousins who were special to her. She was predeceased by four sisters: Rose Warner, Angie Rizziello, Frances Van Dusen and Josephine Wellman; and four brothers: John, Anthony, Philip Marino and Manning Buttacoroli. Betty’s family would like to extend their gratitude to the dedicated healthcare workers at Rome Health and St. Elizabeth’s Healthcare for their care and compassion. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church in Rome. Interment will take place in St. John’s Cemetery. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Betty’s memory to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Rome or St. John the Baptist Memorial Fund. All are welcome to attend the Mass on Saturday. Diocesan Covid-19 protocol will be in place including wearing a mask. Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc. 418 N. George St., Rome.