Service Details
A Homegoing Celebration for Talantic will be held at Israel of God’s Church W.H.A., 2017 Mead Street, Racine on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 11:00AM with Pastor George Hamilton officiating. Visitation will be at church on Saturday from 10:00AM until the time of service.
Talantic Griffin, born December 7, 1938, in Waukegan, Illinois, peacefully transitioned on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
She was the cherished daughter of Frank and Grace Simms, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Lindell Henry; her sisters, Tarone Simms and Tandarlarr Lee; and her brothers, Samuel Simms and Theron Simms.
Talantic lived a life marked by service, leadership, and unwavering faith. For more than 30 years, she dedicated herself to the Foss Park community—first through the Youth Center and later the Community Center—where she became a pillar of support, guidance, and stability for generations of families. Her commitment to the community extended even further as she became one of the first commissioners of the Foss Park District and is believed to be the first Black woman—and possibly the first woman overall—to serve in that role. Her leadership helped shape programs, opportunities, and resources that continue to impact the community today.
She also served the Great Lakes Naval Training Center community for 20-plus years, contributing her time, energy, and heart wherever she was needed. Talantic was instrumental in the development and success of the Flames football team, pouring into young athletes and helping build a program that strengthened both character and community pride. A woman of deep and abiding faith, Talantic was a faithful member of the Israel of God’s Church White Horse Army. When urban renewal changes came to North Chicago, she had the option to join any congregation—but she chose to transfer her membership to the Racine church. She remained a devoted and active member there until her transition, serving with humility, loyalty, and love.
Talantic leaves to cherish her memory her loving son, Robert Deon Griffin; her grandchildren, Wesley Deon Hanna and his beloved wife, Vashon Sibert Hanna, Jadon Henry, and Savanah Deonne Griffin; her greatgrandchildren, Deon Lindell Hanna, Jailah Deonne Hanna, Aaleah Nova Norton, De’Ovion Sibert, and De’Nyla Sibert; her sister, Tabitha Oglesby and her brother, Thailin Simms, both of Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great great nieces and nephews, great-great-great nieces, and many dear friends who were blessed by her presence, guidance, and love.
Talantic’s legacy is one of service, faith, leadership, and love. She touched countless lives through her work, her faith, and her presence. Her impact will continue to live on in the community she helped build and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Jenna Finley says
Sis. Talantic has been in my life for as long as I can remember. We worked on many projects together at church, cooked together in the kitchen, and served side by side over the years.
I had the honor of interviewing her for our church’s research committee so her story and experiences in The Israel of God’s Church could be preserved in our historical society museum. I learned so much about her in that conversation.
She was always willing to serve and help wherever she was needed. She also loved on my family. She showed up to celebrate my parents’ 50th anniversary and sent cards of encouragement and support to my mother that meant more than she probably realized.
She was also the very first person to support me when I launched my business product. That meant a lot.
I’m going to miss our moments of cutting eyes at each other… the kind where what’s understood never has to be explained.
Sending my deepest condolences, prayers, and love to her family during this time. 🫂🙏🏾💙
Gerald and Cheryl Coleman says
we will miss you, you did so much for the youth in North Chicago, a mother to many, you was such a great employee when I was director of the park district, could not have did it without you, Cheryl and I love you.
Joan Battley says
To the beloved family of Ms. G my deepest condolences to you. I will always cherish my Ms. G for her strength, compassion , support and love for the children of North Chicago and her generosity!!!
Forever loved!
Ms. B
Stanley Walker says
Love you Grandoni! R.I.H
Dominic Sarpy says
I will always love you more than words can ever say you’re such a special part of my life always gave me guidance and great love. I’ll always cherish our friendship. You were like a mom to me you will never be forgotten..
Reynell Jones says
My condolences to the Griffin Family
Toni Moreino says
Thank you for many many great memories and your dedication to our North Chicago youth. You are certainly missed in North Chicago
Andre Johnson says
Love you forever Grandoni! We appreciate your contributions to our lives! The Dreamers, The Flames, The entire North Chicago Community. You will never be forgotten! 🫶🏾
Oscar/Bonita Allen says
To the entire family,
We are sorry to hear of Ms. Griffins passing. She was always very kind. May the memories you have of her give you comfort.
Oscar/Bonita Allen and family
Felicia McKissick says
Mrs. Griffin,
You made such a special impact on my childhood. I’ll always remember how your kindness, warmth, and love made everyone feel welcome. You truly were the grandmother of our whole community, and so many of us were blessed to feel your care and guidance growing up.
Your loving spirit and gentle soul will always be remembered, and you will be deeply missed. Thank you for the love you gave so freely.
Rest well, Mrs. Griffin. ❤️
Anonymous says
With love Reverend Coats
Lucinda Brown says
My condolences to the family praying for strength 🙏
Blake Collins says
Mrs G. Will truly be missed. Working along side of you made me feel as if I was visiting my grandmother everyday. A void I desperately needed to feel at the time. Her nurturing spirit was a relationship I will continue to cherish. From the grocery store runs, grace she showed, and the deep conversations we had day to day is something I would never forget. Glad I had an opportunity to experience the love you showed the community as well as the Youth center. Now you can finally get to rest you deserve and use some of those PTO days you never summited…
Much luv…Blake
Lena says
A mother to many, her love extended beyond words. No words can describe the love she has endured on my daughters and I.
Sister Amber Bemley says
Sister Talantic’s presence, smile, and greeting will truly be missed.
I remember Sister Talantic being “fiercely” involved with the Summer Church camp, and she was not to be played with. As a child, he demeanor would seem scary, but as an adult I grew to understand that my dear Sister meant business; and performed her duties with pure intent. No matter what conference I attended, she always made it her business to ask how I was doing, and would say, “I’m glad to see you”.
To the family, may The God of Israel be with you in your time of bereavement.
Patricia Andrews Tabois, Fort Lauderdale says
Sister Talantic, when our Savior sent a flight of angels to escort you to your heavenly home, he said – as in Matthew 25:21 – “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
Go now, our dear sister, to your much deserved rest.
Stephanie Earl says
Thank you for serving our community and thank you for always being there for the youth and Young adults assisting in their guidance you were a pillar to the community everyone knew who you were that was evident, your kindness and godliness will never go astray may you rest in the arms of Jesus we love you always and forever.
Hon Dr. Donna E King says
May the God of all Comforters give her family and friends Strength and Comfort, We knew the amazing friendship we shared as family and friends, Everyone knows that you were my ride or die Sister and you are truly missed ❤️🔥
Hon Dr. Donna E King