Kathleen "Kay" Mcdonnell Griffith

Kathleen ‘Kay’ McDonnell Griffith passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025, at the age of 93.  She was born on January 31, 1932, to Thomas and Margaret McDonnell in Birmingham, Michigan.  As a child, her family moved around a lot, and Kay attended a different school every year for 12 years. She fell in love with Florida and attended Rollins College in Winter Park where she majored in English Literature.

In 1960 she met and married her soul mate, Richard Griffith, and began a life as a devoted wife and mother.  The family moved from Michigan to Richardson, Texas in 1970, where they stayed and raised their 5 children.

Kay was more than just a mom; she was the pillar of her family. She was very active in her children’s lives. From being a dedicated PTA member to coaching soccer teams, she was always ready to lend a helping hand and volunteer where she was needed. She also found a passion for photography, art, music and dance.

These activities later in life connected her with lifelong friends and helped fill her days with exciting adventures.

Kay was also a huge fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. But above all, she loved cheering on her grandkids and great grandkids. She was their biggest fan, attending their games, recitals, theatre productions, and school programs. She was loved and respected by everyone she met, and she will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her children Pete Griffith and wife Diana, Lauren Rooney and husband Steve, Roger Griffith, Kristen Barnes and husband John, Molly Blackney and husband David, 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, as well as many

extended family members whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard and grandson, Matthew Rooney.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Allen Family Funeral Options.

Reception immediately following.

She will be laid to rest with her husband at the DFW National Cemetery, Dallas, Texas.