Family and friends remember Ray Griffin as a kind, down to earth gentleman with a sharp sense of humour, an easy laugh and a generosity of spirit that stayed with the people who knew him. Late of Sweetbriar Lawn, Tramore and formerly of Portlaoise, Ray was Imelda’s beloved husband, a much-loved Dad to Barry, Suzanne and Ray, and an adored Grandad to Alice, Elizabeth, Ray, Maeve, Rory, Isabel, Callum, Hazel, Donagh, Olan and Saoirse. Friends, neighbours and former colleagues spoke warmly of a man who was approachable, supportive and generous with his time. One colleague remembered that around important visitors he might have been “Mr. Griffin”, but otherwise he was simply Ray, and the image that remained was of him laughing. Others recalled coffees, conversations, witty asides and the advice and encouragement he freely gave to people throughout their working lives.
Ray also leaves an extraordinary professional legacy in Waterford. Former colleagues consistently remembered his vision and determination during the growth of Waterford Regional Technical College and its development into Waterford Institute of Technology, work they believe helped lay important foundations for the university that followed. Yet many of the most revealing memories are much simpler: a boss who made himself available, a colleague who offered guidance when it was needed, a neighbour remembered for his kindness, and a man who could comfortably enjoy the company of people from every walk of life. Old friends in Portlaoise remembered many happy times with him, while colleagues spoke not only of what Ray achieved, but of how he treated people along the way. May Imelda, Barry, Suzanne, Ray and all of Ray’s family find comfort in those memories and in knowing that Ray is remembered not only for the institution he helped shape, but for his humour, kindness, friendship and the lasting impression he made on so many lives.
Late of Sweetbriar Lawn, Tramore, Co. Waterford. Formerly of Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Formerly of SETU. Ray passed peacefully at home, with his loving family at his side on Tuesday, the 20th of October, 2026. RIP.
Predeceased by his beloved sister Marie, his sister-in-law Máire Eibhlín and his niece Deirdre.
Ray will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Imelda, his children Barry, Suzanne and Ray; his daughters-in-law Sharon and Michelle; his adoring grandchildren Alice, Elizabeth, Ray, Maeve, Rory, Isabel, Callum, Hazel, Donagh, Olan and Saoirse; his sister Rita; his brothers John and Ted and his sister-in-law Ethna.
Ray will be fondly remembered by his in-laws, all his nieces and nephews, relatives, neighbours, many friends and former colleagues.
May Ray rest peacefully.
Ray’s Celebration of Life will take place in Falconers Funeral Home, Riverstown, Tramore X91TW21 on Thursday the 22nd of October from 4:30 pm to 5 pm. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Funeral Parlour will remain open until 7 pm for friends and acquaintances to pay their respects to the Griffin family. Anyone wishing to attend Ray’s Celebration of Life remotely please use the link below.
Ray’s Celebration of Life Link
All are welcome.
As per Ray’s wishes, his Cremation Service will take place at 2 pm in The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork on Saturday the 24th of October.
Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to The Irish Cancer Society or Waterford Hospice.
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