There are some people whose presence feels like sunlight —warm, steady, and life-giving. Aliciawas one of those rare souls. A devoted mother, loving spouse, cherished daughter, niece, cousin, friend, artist, and lifelong learner.Alicia lived with a curiosity that never dimmed and a heart that never stopped giving.

Born on August 21, 1981, in Arlington, Texas, Alicia arrived at the delight of her parents, Billy and Barbara Griffin, and a large extended family who embraced her from the very beginning. Even before she was born, her father spoke to her as if she were already a student of the world. Even at a young age he encouraged her to ask questions, seek truth, and understand the “why” behind everything. That early nurturing shaped her into a naturally inquisitive child with a mind that never stopped exploring.

As an only child, Alicia learned early on how to build community. She made friends easily at school and church, forming bonds that lasted decades. Her childhood was filled with imagination, creativity, and a sense of wonder that stayed with her throughout her life.

Alicia graduated from Lamar High School in 1999. Drawn to beauty, design, and self-expression, she pursued a degree in Fashion Merchandising at TCC, Tarrant County College. She had a natural eye for color, texture, and form —a talent she carried into her work at the Gap, where she thrived in an environment that allowed her creativity to shine.

But Alicia was never limited to one passion. She was a philomath in the truest sense —someone who loved learning for the joy of it. Whether it was art, psychology, genealogy, or gardening, she immersed herself fully, always hungry for knowledge.

In 2006, Alicia stepped into the role that defined her heart more than any other: Mom. Her son, Escher, was her world. She nurtured in him the same love of learning and curiosity that had shaped her own life. She protected him fiercely, loved him deeply, and celebrated every part of who he was. Their bond was profound, and Alicia carried that love with her always.

Alicia held many roles throughout her life, but she found her true calling as an event planner at The Dallas Dating Company. She loved helping people connect, celebrate, and find joy. Her work allowed her to blend creativity, organization, and compassion —a combination that made her exceptional at what she did.

Her time there sparked a deeper interest in human behavior and emotional connection. This led her to enroll at the University of Arizona Global Campus, where she studied psychology and earned repeated recognition on the dean’s list. She was just one year away from completing her degree, a testament to herdetermination and love of learning.

In 2011, Alicia met her life partner and best friend, Benjamin Oberg. Affectionately referring to each other as “Beep” and “Beep”. Together they built a life rich with shared passions: cooking meals side by side, traveling across the United States, visiting friends and family, and spending quiet evenings puzzling together. Their relationship was a partnership of laughter, support, and deep affection, a bond that brought Alicia immense joy.

Alicia was a self-taught artist whose work reflected her vibrant inner world. She explored marbling, watercolor, and acrylic painting, creating pieces that were as expressive and thoughtful as she was. She also found peace in gardening, cooking, rock hounding, music, and reading.

Her curiosity extended to her roots. Alicia spent years researching her family history, tracing ancestry from Louisiana to Europe. She preserved stories, uncovered connections, and built a bridge between generations —a gift her family will treasure forever.

Alicia was preceded in death by her beloved son, Escher Matthew Lee Griffin, her father, Billy Griffinand her grandparents, Perry & Velma Henryand OT & Eva Griffin.

She is survived by her loving life partner, Benjamin Oberg; her mother, Barbara H.Griffin; Ben'smother Cynthia Hebert and father Larry Oberg;her half-brother, Michael Griffin; and a host of relatives and friends.

Acknowledgement

With hearts full of gratitude, we thank our family, friends, and everyone who has surrounded us with love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Alicia was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can express. We will forever cherish her memories, laughter, and love and we are comforted by the kindness you have shown us. From our family to yours, thank you for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers.

TheOberg and Griffin Families

FINAL ARRANGEMENTS & INTERMENT

EmeraldHills Funeral Home & Memorial Park

500 Kennedale Sublett Rd

Kennedale TX 76060

Repast Immediately following at Emerald Hills.

Inher final selfless act on earth,

Alicia was an organ donor.

Through this generous decision,

her legacy of kindness lives on.

In lieu of flowers, Ben would like donations to one of Alicia’s favorite organizations, NPR National Public Radio. Just click the link below:

https://www.npr.org/donations/support