Obituaries

Audrey Mae (née Griffith) Riffe, 83, of Ft. Thomas, KY, a woman of boundless grace, spirit, and a heart built for loving others, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, surrounded by the family that was her greatest masterpiece. Born on October 5, 1942, in Corbin, Kentucky, Audrey carried the warmth of her Bluegrass roots through every chapter of her life.

A longtime resident of Newport, Kentucky, Audrey graduated from Newport High School in 1961. She dedicated 22 years of her career to Northern Kentucky University, working in the Registrar’s Office. During her time there, she impacted the lives of countless students, offering a steady hand and a kind heart as she helped them navigate their way through college.

Her retirement opened the door to a world of adventure. She shared unforgettable trips to Europe with her mother and sister and marveled at the landscapes of Alaska and Hawaii with her husband, Ken. A lifelong sports enthusiast, she reached a pinnacle of Kentucky tradition when she experienced the Kentucky Derby not just as a fan, but as a guest in the owner’s suite—a highlight that perfectly captured her "spunky" spirit and joy for life.

At the center of Audrey’s world was her husband, Kenneth Riffe, whom she met in high school. Together, they shared a profound and enduring devotion; they were just weeks away from celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary on June 3, 2026. While she enjoyed traveling the world, her favorite journey was watching her children and grandchildren grow up. She took immense pride in seeing them develop their own unique personalities, build their own families, and navigate their lives, always serving as their steady anchor and biggest cheerleader. She found her greatest peace in "family time," believing that simply being together was the greatest gift of all.

Outside of her professional life, Audrey spent her years finding beauty in the quiet, meaningful moments spent with those she held dear. A gifted quilter with a rare eye for detail and a patient soul, Audrey spent countless hours creating masterpieces from the vibrant fabrics she loved. These were far more than blankets; they were tangible expressions of her devotion. Every stitch was made with care, and she took immense joy in passing this craft down to her children and grandchildren.

Whether she was focused on a new pattern, tending her flowers, or gathered with her family to cheer on her UK Wildcats and Cincinnati Reds, Audrey lived every moment with a joyful heart. Her presence was the gentle thread that held her family together. She taught those around her that life, much like a quilt, is most beautiful when the different pieces are joined with patience, strength, and love.

Audrey is now reunited with her parents, Virgia (née Lynch) and Claude Griffith; her brother, Gary Griffith; her brothers-in-law, Jim Riffe and Tom Riffe; and her sister-in-law, Bev Riffe.

Audrey is survived by her devoted husband, Ken; her children, Becky (Jim) Luersen, Kenny (Kami née Sensel) Riffe, Bonnie (Hans) Nienaber, and Micky (Heather née Depew) Riffe. Audrey was the beloved grandmother to Kati (John) Manning, Trey (Mikka) Bramble, Karley Riffe, Logan Riffe, Ben (Abby Harris) Luersen, Hank Nienaber, Eli (Mariah Gilbert) Nienaber, Drew Luersen (Grizelle Manalastas), Olivia (Bryce) Day, Alana Nienaber, Emili Riffe (Bryce Kremer), and Blake Riffe. Audrey was also the proud great-grandmother to Kaeden Lipscomb (Lindsay Arnold), Kalee Bramble, Kamden Bramble, Rhiannon Manning, Camryn Manning, Collin Manning, and Sebastian Manning. Audrey is further survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Glenna (Dave) Bruce; her siblings-in-law, Gerry Riffe, Cheryl (Lary) Runge, Bill (Karen) Riffe, and Bob (Linda) Riffe; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Living Hope Baptist Church, 1080 Highland Avenue, Ft. Thomas, KY 41075. The funeral service to honor her life and the quiet beauty she brought into the world will begin at 12:30 p.m., with a celebration of life immediately following in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Audrey’s name to your favorite charity.

Special condolences and memories may be given at www.dmefuneral.com.