Tributes paid to South West Wales SSAFA volunteer Valerie Griggs

18 June 2026

Colleagues across SSAFA are saddened to share news of the death of Valerie Griggs, a dedicated volunteer whose commitment to the Armed Forces community spanned many years.

Valerie joined SSAFA following her retirement from a career in healthcare administration and quickly became a valued member of the charity’s volunteer network in west Wales.

Over the course of her volunteering career, Valerie supported countless serving personnel, veterans and military families through her work as a caseworker, Divisional Secretary for Pembrokeshire, Branch Secretary for Dyfed, and later Branch Secretary for South West Wales.

Known for her professionalism, compassion and organisational skills, Valerie worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure those in need received support and guidance during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

Her dedication to SSAFA was recognised nationally in 2023 when she was invited to SSAFA’s Annual General Meeting in London and installed as an Honorary Life Member of the Association, one of the charity’s highest honours for long and distinguished service.

Valerie’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community reflected a lifetime spent alongside military service. As the wife of a Royal Navy submariner, she experienced first-hand the challenges faced by military families during postings across the UK and overseas, including Scotland, Hampshire and Gibraltar.

Away from SSAFA, Valerie was active within her local community, serving as Treasurer of her local Royal Naval Association branch, Secretary of St David’s Church and Lady Captain of her golf club.

Valerie passed away on 17 May 2026 at home in Pembrokeshire, with her husband David by her side.

Stephen Boswell, SSAFA Wales Regional Manager, said: “Valerie was one of those volunteers who quietly made an enormous difference. Her commitment to SSAFA, her compassion for others and her willingness to help wherever she was needed earned the respect and admiration of everyone who worked alongside her.

“Over many years she supported countless members of the Armed Forces community across west Wales and helped strengthen SSAFA through her dedication and professionalism. She will be greatly missed by friends and colleagues throughout SSAFA. Our thoughts are with David and all of Valerie’s family at this difficult time.”