Memories of Marjorie Griffin

Written by: Sam W· 29 September 2015

We are very sad to share that previous Warden, Marjorie Griffin, has passed away at the age of 101. Marjorie managed the hostel from 1955 to 1975 and was responsible for the hostel’s move from London to its current location in Reading.

In 1968 she was awarded a British Empire Medal in recognition for her work at the hostel. The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire presented the medal to Marjorie at a ceremony in the garden at Elizabeth Fry House.

Marjorie visited the House in July 2011 to celebrate the re-opening of the building following the fire in 2009. She also spoke at a Service at Greyfriars Church in 2012 celebrating the hostel’s 50 years in Reading. Marjorie’s stories that she shared of working at the hostel proved to be a real inspiration to both staff and residents.

Marjorie’s family were kind enough to donate her medal to the Charity, and is on display at the Approved Premises. It serves as a wonderful reminder of Marjorie’s commitment to the hostel and its residents.

Sam W

I joined Elizabeth Fry Charity in 2016 and am responsible for managing the financial operations of the Charity.

I love working at Elizabeth Fry. The work is so interesting, no day is the same and it’s so wonderful seeing someone reach their potential. 

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