Erika Jean Griffin

We are heartbroken to share the sudden passing of our loving friend and family member Erika Griffin. She passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the University of Michigan Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 38. She was born on September 16, 1987, in Bay City, Michigan.

She was an incredibly talented artist whose creativity brought joy to everyone around her. Whether she was crafting something beautiful, or sharing her work at music festivals, she had a gift for making people smile. She loved being part of her community and found so much happiness in connecting with others through her art.

Some of her favorite moments in life were spent outdoors—camping under the stars, tubing down the Rifle River, and making lasting memories with family and friends. Her niece and nephew, Lilly and Austin Jr, were the lights of her life. She had a deep love for fun and adventure, and her spirit shined through in everything she did, including her love for games—especially Mario and Monopoly, which always brought out her competitive, but carefree side.

Professionally, she dedicated much of her life to caring for children. She poured her heart into her work, and the kids she cared for loved her deeply in return. She made a lasting impact on so many young lives, offering kindness, patience, and warmth every single day.

Erika is survived by the love of her life, Matthew Myers; her furbabies, Luna and Bagheera; her mother, Lorra Thomas; her stepfather, David Blumlo; her grandmother Judy Clancey; her aunts and uncle, Dixie Keane, Wendy Broccoli, and Brooke (Diane) Keane; her siblings, Nathan Clancey, Joseph (My Michelle Abram, Lilly, Kaleb, Arianna, Haley) Clancey III , Austin (Catherine, Austin Jr) Sanders, and Collin (Ariana Mika) Blumlo; and her best friend, Ashley (Sebastian) Brandon.

She was preceded in death by her stepfather, Joey Clancey Jr.; and her grandparents, Glenda and Robert Thomas, and Joseph Clancey Sr.

In accordance with Erika’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in accordance with the wishes of the family.