Gayla Griffith

Gayla Ann Johnstun Griffith peacefully passed away February 14, 2013, surrounded by her family. She was born October 28, 1945 to Sam & Uteva (Payne) Johnstun in Tremonton, UT. As the oldest, Gayla practiced her mothering skills on her siblings: Sam (Terry) Johnstun, Don (Janet) Johnstun, Carol (Doug) Wilson, & Ron (Nadine) Johnstun. Gayla met her eternal companion, Greg Griffith, working summers at Yellowstone National Park. In love, but later separated by military duty, their romance grew over mail correspondence. After Greg proposed via letter, Gayla took a leap of faith, boarded a plane to Alaska, and married her man-in-uniform on May 12, 1967. She often joked she was a true “mail-order bride.” Thru marriage, she gained three sisters: Carolyn Rohr, Charlotte (Peter) Vouaux & Kitty Griffith. Gayla worked in many capacities within the Mesa School District; she found great joy in working with special-needs children. An active member in the LDS church, Gayla held positions in Primary, Young Womens, Relief Society, as well as Ward Librarian. Gayla’s proudest accomplishment was her family: 4 sons, 1 daughter, 10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren. She was quick to befriend others, and found joy in those she associated with. Her house was the center of the known universe, and all who entered were welcome, fed, and cherished. Gayla is survived by her husband, Greg; her children: Jerry (Linda), Randy (Carolina), Terry (Sara), David (Thanh), and Melody; grandchildren: Ryan Burton, Alyssa Ortolano, Megan Williams, Christopher Griffith, Rachel Williams, Joseph Divit, Rebecca Divit, Emily Griffith, Aiden Griffith, Logan Griffith; and great-grandson, Huxley de Masi & great-grandaughter, Nova (due July.) Gayla was “mom” to nephews, nieces—and many others, too. It seems fitting that a woman with such a big heart and capacity for unconditional love would leave this world for a better one on Valentine’s Day. While her family sent her, encircled by love, she was welcomed to the other side by an even bigger circle of love. All who knew her were honored to have spent time with her on earth. Her family is now blessed with her watching from above. We love you, Mom! Memorial Services will be held Saturday, 02/23/13, 10:00 AM at the LDS church, 2647 S. Signal Butte Rd., Mesa AZ 85209 (Signal Butte & Guadalupe). Internment at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

Gayla Griffith

October 28, 1945 - February 14, 2013