On Thursday. County Executive Marc Elrich issued a statement on the passing of Joseph M. Griffin, Montgomery County’s longtime Register of Wills. Joseph M. Griffin began working in the Montgomery County Register of Wills Office in 1993 and was elected Register of Wills in 1998, serving seven consecutive terms. He held various roles in professional and community organizations, including the Maryland Register of Wills Association and the National College of Probate Judges.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Joseph M. Griffin, Montgomery County’s longtime Register of Wills. Joe dedicated more than three decades of service to our County, guiding families through some of their most difficult moments with compassion, dignity and integrity. A lifelong Montgomery County resident, Joe brought a deep sense of community and responsibility to his role. He was a steady and knowledgeable leader, serving seven consecutive terms and an advocate for good governance, both locally and statewide.
Beyond his public service, Joe was a kind and generous man with an unwavering commitment to helping others. His death is a loss for Montgomery County and for all who had the privilege to know him. On behalf of the Montgomery County government, I extend our deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich
We lost a dedicated public servant this week.
Joseph M. Griffin, Montgomery County’s longtime Register of Wills, served our community with compassion, integrity and heart for more than 30 years.
Read my statement below. pic.twitter.com/cKpE22OLcH
— Montgomery County, MD – County Exec Marc Elrich (@MontCoExec) August 7, 2025