Olene Poteat Griffin

Olene Poteat Griffin, 95, of Drexel, NC passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025.

She was born on April 5, 1930 to the late Thomas Fulton Poteat and Arvie Childres Poteat.

Olene grew up in the Hickory area and married the love of her life, Paul, on September 8, 1946. There’s was a dual income family where she worked in a variety of jobs. When her children were young, she worked evenings as a nursing assistant at Valdese Hospital. Over time, she trained and worked as a hairdresser, an insurance processer for Drexel Medical Center, and a receptionist for Drexel Furniture Engineering Plant. Her last employer was Cato Corporation, where she worked as a retail sales associate and store manager.

Olene was a member of Drexel First Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir for many years. She also sang with the Morganton Senior Citizens Choral Group. She enjoyed singing at home until the end of her life and is now singing in Heaven’s Choir.

Olene’s lasting legacy is one of fun and laughter. She saw the power of laughter, and the importance of having fun was the key ingredient for a happy life.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Alexander Griffin; sons, Samuel N. Griffin and Bruce C. Griffin; and brothers, Thomas S. Poteat (Ann) and Gary Poteat (Ruth Ann).

Olene is survived by her daughters, Paulette Griffin (Madeline Frosch) and Beverly Griffin (Judy Willis); grandchildren, Chase Griffin (Devan) and Alexandra Cunningham (Brett); great-grandchildren, Jackson Griffin, Emma Griffin, Salem Griffin, Crew Cunningham, and Cash Cunningham; and daughter-in-law, Janet Griffin.

A celebration of Olene’s Life will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, October 26, 2025 at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Chandler officiating. There will be a reception in the church fellowship hall following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Baptist Church.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.