Ella Bertha Griffin, affectionately known as “Mother” to most, was born February 13th, 1935, in
Columbus, GA to the late Wylie Jackson and Mary Rush Jackson. Mother was a proud alumna of
Spencer High school where she was a spirited majorette and a talented basketball player.
In 1958, Mother answered her divine calling into ministry and dedicated her life to serving God.
Demonstrating unwavering faith and commitment, she earned her bachelor’s degree in biblical
knowledge at the age of 65. She was anointed and appointed as the first Mother of the Hannah
House in Columbia, SC where she led and nurtured souls toward Christ with love and
compassion.
Her ministry was vast and impactful, encompassing outreach, prison ministry (notably the Men’s
Reentry Initiative), and international missions in Ghana, Hawaii, and Mexico. Mother Ella’s
service extended to hospitality, ushering, praying, laying on of hands and deliverance in Jesus’
name! Her life was a testament to her deep devotion to Christ and her tireless efforts to spread
His Word. Throughout her journey, Mother Ella faced numerous life challenges: loss, health
struggles, and adversity, but her faith remained steadfast. Even in her hospital bed, she
ministered to staff and doctors always concluding her assignments with the words, “Its God.”
Her unwavering trust in the Lord sustained her through every trial.
Mother Ella’s spiritual life was marked by continuous growth. She endured the loss of her
parents, all of her siblings, her beloved husband Nathaniel Griffin, Sr., her eldest daughter
Prophetess Joyce Lewis, eldest son Nathaniel Griffin, Jr., and granddaughter Nakeisha Jones.
Despite these hardships she remained steadfast, a prayer warrior, faithful, Holy Ghost filled and
God fearing always believing in the promises of God’s Word.
Leaving to cherish great memories are her children: Dr. Angela (Morris) Cantrell, Darrell
Griffin, and Maurice (Collis) Gilliard. God found her worthy to promote her to Grandmother,
who was always imparting wisdom and love. To carry the torch are her grandchildren: Minister
Monica Davis, Derrick Davis, Daniel Davis, Tyrell (Sijuan) Cantrell, Cherysse (Darrow)
Durham, Tavias Cantrell, Kashawna Griffin, Jessica Griffin, Mark Anthony Griffin, Antwoine
Griffin, Victoria Griffin, Daniel Harris, Torrey Carter, Latoya Gilliard and Nicole (Jordan)
Foster.
Mother was promoted once again to Great Grandmother propelling her legacy are 30 great
grandchildren. Her final and greatest promotion here on earth was to Great-Great Grandmother
of 4 great-great grandchildren. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family and leaves
memories to cherish by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and fellow believers.
Ella Bertha Griffin’s legacy is one of faith, resilience, and unconditional love. Her life was a
testament to the power of prayer, trust in God, and unwavering devotion. She will be deeply
missed but forever remembered for her spiritual guidance, her joyful spirit and her unwavering
commitment to serving the Lord.
1 Timothy 1:12 “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who have enabled me, for that he counted
me faithful, putting me into the ministry.”
Rest in peace, Mother. Your work here is done, and you are now in the presence of our Lord.
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