(Griffin) Tarburton, 98 DOVER - Elva Frances (Griffin) Tarburton died Fri., July 19, 2013, at State Street Assisted Living in Dover. She was the daughter of John and Emma Griffin of Smyrna, Del. Elva was born in Smyrna and lived most of her life in Dover with her late husband, Fred Tarburton. Both met as employees of the former Bell Telephone Company of Delaware and were married in 1940. Elva loved line dancing with the Steppin' Seniors, The Red Hat Society of Delaware, volunteer work through RSVP, and her activities at the Wesley Methodist Church of Dover. Most of all, she enjoyed sharing her love and joy of life with all of her many friends and family members. She will be remembered for her remarkable optimistic attitude and compassion for other people. Although in failing health the last couple of years, Elva insisted on remaining as independent as possible. She enjoyed her new friends at State Street Assisted Living and all of the activities available. She was an avid bridge card player, and enjoyed participating in several clubs with her husband, Fred. In addition to her parents, Elva was predeceased by her husband, Fred Tarburton; and her brother, Jack Griffin. She is survived by her sister, Betty Jane Harrington; son, Fred Tarburton Jr. and his wife, Gina; grandchildren, Mark Tarburton and Jennifer Banning; four great grandchildren; and her very close niece, Connie Holland of Dover. Memorial services will be held on Thurs., July 25, 2013 at 6 p.m. in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located on 29 S. Main St., Smyrna, where friends may call at 5 p.m. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery in Smyrna. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be sent to the Wesley Methodist Church of Dover, 209 South State Street, Dover, DE 19904 or the Modern Maturity Center, 1121 Forest Avenue, Dover, DE 19904-3308. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.