Ellen LaPlante Griffin, 78, of Meriden, passed away on July 7, 2025, after a hard-fought battle on dialysis.

She was the loving mother of David Gavin, Kevin Gavin, Julie Ward, Amy Gavin, Jean-Marie Griffin, William Griffin, and Shaun Griffin. A devoted grandmother, Ellen will be dearly missed by her grandchildren: Tricia, Rebecca, Dakota, Robert, Olivia, Gabrielle, Victoria, Devin, Mason, Christopher, Tyler, Conner, Kevin, Riley, Mason, and Caiden. She was also a cherished great-grandmother to Alaynna, Freya, and Jameson.

Ellen was born in Milford, CT, on August 5, 1946, the daughter of the late Charles and Marjorie (Chaud) LaPlante. She was predeceased by her brothers, David and Edward LaPlante, and a beloved grandchild, L.J.

Growing up in Milford, Ellen developed a lifelong love for the beach and lighthouses. These early passions became symbolic of the life she would lead-a beacon of light and hope to so many. As an adult, she dedicated more than 25 years to being a foster mother, opening her heart and home to over 100 children over the years, many with special needs. Her home offered more than just shelter-it provided safety, stability, and a second chance to children who needed it most.

The Gavin/Griffin house was never empty. It became a true "lighthouse" for the neighborhood, filled with warmth, laughter, and boundless love. Between her own seven children, their friends who fondly called her "Mom," and the many foster children she welcomed, her home was always alive with energy and care.

Ellen was known for her huge heart, her loving spirit, and her unwavering devotion as a mother-not only to her own children but to so many others who were blessed to be touched by her kindness.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped and the love she gave so freely.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, July 11, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Beecher & Bennett-Flatow Funeral Home, 48 Cook Ave., Meriden. A Prayer Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Walnut Grove Cemetery.