Most of us have all heard the quote –
“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!” – Hunter S. Thompson (The Proud Highway: Saga of a Desperate Southern Gentleman, 1955-1667)
No one lived up to the quote more than Audrey Griffin. However, I must say she slid in looking well preserved because that was the elegant lady that she was. I had just returned from hosting the first tribal expedition in Angola, to discover the news that Audrey had been out herding cattle on her favorite ranch when she died instantly. It seems she orchestrated her perfect exit; she left this world while she was doing what she absolutely loved the most – in the saddle ridding!
All those who had the privilege to meet her will miss that gorgeous smile. At 82, she was more stunning than I could ever imagine being for one day of my life, not only on the outside because she was even more beautiful on the inside – full of grace, dignity, and strength. Her passion for life was unmatched. She not only inspired everyone who met her, but she made everyone strive to be a better person.
Although Audrey was a legend, she was so humble that no one would ever guess that she had such a rich legacy. In 2008 she was inducted into the cowgirl hall of fame for her many achievements, most notably her roman ridding. It was such an honor she road at all my Sprit-N-Light workshops at the V6 Ranch for the past 6+ years. Early on I could not resist asking her what the secret was for her happiness. She simply stated, “say yes to everything.” It seems like such a simple philosophy, but one that is much harder to practice.
When I first started on my photographic journey 15 years ago, I had no idea about the richness it would bring from all the incredible people who have come into my life. Nor did I think I would be offering workshops at the V6 Ranch for almost 8 years now; a place as special to me as Africa! Since so many of you had the wonderful privilege of not only meeting and photographing Audrey, but had many wonderful conversations with her in the ranch café or while lounging in the living area of the lodge I wanted to share the details of the celebration of her life on August 9, 2020. I will be there with several others.
Below is one of the last images I captured of Audrey at the Dust-N-Light workshop, just before I departed to Angola. Usually, she chose to sit out riding through the water, but on this day, she road through with such spirit – immaculate down to her pedicure on the outside, but so much more beautiful on the inside. During these workshops, I am so busy I do not shoot much, but when I saw Audrey in the water I ran and picked up my camera. This shot is my favorite one that I have captured of her among the hundreds of images I have taken of her throughout the years. I am still having a hard time understanding her passing, that we have had our last conversation, and that I won’t be watching her ride into 100. I will always be grateful for knowing her!
While you are on this earth, let her inspire you to live your passion every day and just say YES!
Just as I was finishing this post I saw this link to the a letter written from Jerry Williams who was there when she pass – she was deeply loved by all.
Thank you Piper this is so beautiful and thank you for introducing myself and others to this beautiful woman. I was very grateful for the sharing of the letter RIP Beautiful Lady
We are all so honored to have met her.
What a beautiful tribute to Audrey and Jerry’s letter made me cry. What an impact Audrey made on so many lives, living beautifully until the end!
Thank you. She had such a positive affect on everyone who met her…….
Thank you so much, Piper, for sending this post and attaching Jerry’s letter. It helps so much, as a pastor, to know what happened and how and that her priest was there. I know how important that would have been to Audrey. I hadn’t known that Kristin was from Santa Ynez, too, and am so glad that she was there as well. Will be at the celebration of her life, so may see you there.
You are so welcome. She meant so much to so many people so I wanted to share it with everyone. It is sure to be a grand celebration on August 9
A lovely tribute for a lovely lady. She will be greatly missed but always remembered.
Yes she will. It would be great to see you at the celebration if you can make it……
Audrey – beauty, grace, inspiration, friend, and legend. Each who knows her is blessed. Piper, thank you for your beautiful tribute.