Serena E. Griffith

Serena E. Griffith, 80, of Sedalia, passed away Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center.

She was born November 29, 1944, in California, MO, the fourth of eight children born to the late Fred W. and Katherine R. (Meyer) Brown. On June 27, 1963, in Columbia, MO, she married Richard D. Griffith who preceded her in death on January 6, 2021.

Serena was a 1962 graduate of California High School. After marriage, she worked in various positions, including at Kim Originals, Lamy’s, as a waitress, and in support roles at doctor’s offices and nursing homes. Demonstrating her commitment to caring for others, she was accepted into the LPN program at State Fair Community College, received her pin in 1991, and served as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Bothwell Regional Health Center until her retirement.

She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.

Serena found joy in the intricate art of crocheting and embroidery, and her flower beds were a vibrant testament to her green thumb. A self-taught piano player, she also delighted in sharing stories, often with a touch of creative embellishment. Above all, she loved her family and looked forward to the warmth and laughter of large family dinners, always bringing out her finest dishes for these special occasions.

Survivors include two children, Pam Bird (Richard), of Sedalia, and Ron Griffith (Bonnie), of Lincoln; three siblings, Madelyn Blacksten, of Excelsior, Don Brown (Terry), of California, and Beverly Ashley, of Clarksburg; a sister-in-law, Dianne Brown, of Latham; four grandchildren, Greg Bird (Caitlin), Jennifer Griffith, Tim Bird (Katlyn) and Alex Griffith; and eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by an infant son, Allen Leroy Griffith; and siblings, Lyle Brown, Thelma Sharlene Schreck, Ray Brown and Michael Brown.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm, Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Heckart Funeral Home with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 pm with Jason Ashley and Rev. Jonathan Wallenbeck officiating.

Pallbearers will be Greg Bird, Tim Bird, Alex Griffith, Lenny Schreck, Scot Schreck and Kent Brown.

Burial will be in Smithton Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to ACG Hospice in care of Heckart Funeral Home.