Mary Lou was born on February 12, 1934, to the late Coleman and Gertrude Huggins.

Originating from Uniontown, Alabama, she relocated to Coalwood West Virginia where she graduated from Excelsior High School as Valedictorian. She embraced her Christian faith during her teenage years.

Mary Lou relocated to Buffalo, NY, in 1952, where she met her beloved late husband, Robert L. Griffin Sr., the following year. Together, they started a family, joyfully welcoming four children into their lives.

She embarked on her journey as a nurse's aide at Millard Fillmore Gates in 1954, and she furthered her career at Sisters of Charity Hospital in 1956. She raised multiple generations, instilling in them the values of empathy and dedication. In her free time, she enjoyed the casino, shopping and gardening. Her nurturing spirit shone brightly, as she gathered her loved ones by sharing her passion for baking and preparing soulful meals. Mary Lou was not only a caregiver in her professional life but also in her personal life, always welcoming and offering a warm smile that could lighten the heaviest of hearts.

Mary Lou peacefully took her rest on January 19, 2026.

Her life exemplified the beauty of simplicity and the strength of a kind heart. Her family and friends will always hold dear the memories and lessons she shared, ensuring that her spirit lives on through future generations.

Preceded in death by: parents, Coleman and Gertrude Huggins, husband Robert L. Griffin Sr., brothers Willie and David Huggins, sister Clara Belle Bailey (Huggins), son Milton Thomas Sr. and grandsons Jawaan and Jaylen Griffin.

She leaves to mourn: children Robert Jr (Elise), Denise, Brian, and Monica. 11 Grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren. Lifelong friends Essie Mae Johnson, Mother Stallworth and mother Jones. Cherished nieces and nephews Waverly (Denise), Dorothy J. (Ervin). And a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd., near Eggert Rd on Wednesday, February 4th from 4-6PM. An additional visitation will be held the following day, Thursday, February 5th from 11-12PM at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 400 Northampton Street, Buffalo, NY. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12PM. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.