Ray Griffin

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.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to The Irish Cancer Society or Waterford Hospice.
https://www.idonate.ie/donate/cause/irishcancersociety
https://waterfordhospice.ie/make-a-donation/

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.