Galen H. Griffith, Sr.
August 25, 1933 - April 22, 2026
Galen H. Griffith, Sr., age 92, of Middletown, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on August 25, 1933, in Wilmington, DE, Galen was the son of the late William H. Griffith, Sr. and Marguerite H. Griffith. He lived a long, full life rooted in family, friends, and simple joys.
Galen was a proud lifetime member of the Minquadale Fire Company, Station 22, and spent his career as a dedicated member of the Local 30 Roofers Union out of Philadelphia until his retirement. He carried a strong work ethic and a deep sense of loyalty into everything he did.
He found joy in many hobbies—stock car racing, fishing, big ball games—and he was an avid horseman who loved the rhythm and peace of being around horses. But above all else, Galen’s greatest pride was his family. He often said that his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were his life’s greatest accomplishments. To them, he was the best dad, PopPop, and great PopPop anyone could hope for. His love, guidance, and humor leave behind a lifetime of cherished memories that will be held close forever.
Galen was preceded in death by his sisters, Doris Bonvetti, Phillys Meli, and Marguerite Edwards; his brother, William H. Griffith, Sr.; and his great granddaughter, Grace Guptill.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Dorothy (Pekol) Griffith. He leaves behind his sons: Galen H. Griffith, Jr., Carl Griffith, and Jim Griffith (Dana); and his daughters, Cindy Grott and Joanne Vaughn (Tom).
He was a proud PopPop to his grandchildren: Ashlynn Guptill (Tim), Cory Grott, Jesse Wipf (Melissa), Maryann Griffith (Mark), Mackenzie Griffith, Devin Griffith, and Daulton Griffith. His legacy continues through his great grandchildren: Jesse Wipf, Vera Guptill, Evie Wipf, Jack Guptill, and Archie Guptill.
Galen is also survived by his brother, Donald Griffith (Sally); his sister, Janet Davis; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
His presence will be missed immensely, but the love he gave will continue to shine through the generations he leaves behind.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11:30 am on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 North DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 11:30 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Minquadale Fire Company, P.O. Box 647 Manor Branch, New Castle, DE 19720.
Mary Ann Cael
I am so sorry for your loss, I have so many fond memories with your family and dad. He had such a loving heart and the same time told you truth. Everytime we rode by the house we were looking for him sitting outside. I will keep all you in prayers.
President Monique Johns
Mr. Galen was always so kind to me, he encouraged and supported me in ways I’ll never forget. He always had words of wisdom that will stay with me. My heart is truly crushed.
Ms. Dottie, I guess it’s just you and me on the porch now. Sending love to you and the whole family. Blessings.
Roxanne Edwards
Rest in peace Uncle Galen, you will be missed
Roxanne
Thomas Pekol Jr and family
My family sends its deepest condolences during this difficult time. May the memories bring peace to you and your family. Please know that you and yours are in our thoughts and prayers. We love yall
Ray & Jane Williams
Sympathy to all the Griffith family. Galen was a very nice Man and firefighter many years ago at Minquadale where he was raised. You won’t be forgotten because you always told great stories of what it use to be like at the firehouse. Rest easy you did so much in the 93 years you were here on earth. Will miss you sitting in the driveway mayor of Boyd’s Corner Road. We will miss you We just always knew you were down the road! Love you Ray & Jane.
Edna a Young
Joanne and family, Sorry that your father has passed but he certainly lived a long and full life. The family video was very well done. I offer condolences and hope that your wonderful memories of him sustain you from now on.
Sincerely, Edna Young (Debbie Meekins’ mom)
Randy Roberts, Holloway Terrace Fire Company
You were a good man and I greatly respected you for your service to the community and for your love and care of your family. Rest in peace my friend.
Dorothy Carey
He certainly was one of a kind, and i know he will be missed by his sweet wife and lovely children. Have not seen him in years, my fault, but always kept he and Dottie in my daily thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace dear one, Love, Dorri
Rose Samluk
I am so sorry for your loss, Keeping everyone in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Meli
I am sorry to hear about Uncle Galen, he was a very kind, generous man, we loved him dearly. love to you all, Nancy Meli
Mark and Debbie Pekol
Rest in peace uncle Galen, we’ll miss you and we love you ❤️.