Cornelius M. Griffin

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Regards, The staff at Edward F. Lieber Funeral Homes, Inc.

Cornelius "Neil" Griffin was born in Brooklyn, NY on March 27, 1932 to Helen and Patrick Griffin. It was an Easter Sunday. As a child, Neil spent his time playing baseball and basketball, and training as an Irish dancer. He looked up to his older brother Thomas, following him into the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Before leaving for his tour, he met and fell in love with Kathryn Keeler. It would be a love that would burn bright for over 68 years. When he was overseas, Kathryn and her mother Ruth helped plan a wedding that would happen not long after his return from Korea. Neil was discharged honorably from the Air Force after receiving decorations for his service. Serving his country was an experience he would honor and cherish for the rest of his life. Neil and Kathryn were married and together they would bring eight children into the world; Mary, Cornelius, Ruth, Kathryn, Veronica, Regina, Helen, and Christopher. The center of family life for Neil and Kathryn was their Roman Catholic faith. Prayer, the sacramental life, and Catholic education were priorities for everyone in the family. 
 
Neil worked in database management for the Equitable Life Insurance Company. During his 30 plus years with the Equitable, Neil helped transition large amounts of information from paper files, to magnetic tapes, to computer databases. In his work, he was known for his efficiency, strong communication skills, and commitment to his team. After retiring from the Equitable, Neil started a new journey, enrolling in a Master of Arts program in Theology at St. John's University. He felt a deep connection to both the Hebrew and Christian scriptures, which became a focus of his studies during his graduate studies. After graduating, he worked for over a decade as a parish youth minister and the supervisor of a parish RCIA program (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults). Over the years, he impacted many lives by sharing the gift of his faith.
 
In his later years, Neil enjoyed the time he could spend with Kathryn. He also cherished every moment with his 26 grandchildren and 22 (and more to come!) great grandchildren. He would always greet you with a big hello and a warm smile. During your time with Neil, you would always laugh, sometimes cry, and often learn something new about your faith. Although Neil suffered ill health, he never let it affect his welcoming and positive disposition. The world was good, in Neil's eyes. It was good because God had created everything in it. Neil had a devotion to Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Church that was a beacon for everyone in his family.
 
This past March, Kathryn died from coronavirus. Neil suffered the profound grief of losing his love. His health declined. But never did his faith, hope, or love even waiver. Some could argue that Neil became his most fully actualized self as he embraced his suffering and persevered through both physical pain and emotional strain. Even though others cared for him physically, he opened his heart and mind to everyone around him. He reminded us that we were blessed in so many ways, and that we should keep praying and remain hopeful in our faith.
 
On December 11th, Jesus called Neil home, to his beloved Kathryn, his parents, and all those he loved that went before him. He leaves behind a family too big to name, all of whom love him deeply. Neil received many graces and gifts from God. He held them close to his heart. Now, he is at peace in the arms of our Lord.