RIFFIN, Thomas K of Weston and Marion died on March 18, 2016 at the age of 63. Beloved husband of Pamela Martin Riffin. Devoted father of T. Max Riffin of Boston and Catherine Riffin and her husband Patrick Smith of Stamford CT. Loving son of Natalie and Paul Riffin (deceased) and brother of Andrew Riffin, all of Lexington.
A forensic psychologist, Dr. Riffin served as Clinical Director of the Middlesex County Juvenile Court Clinics, and later as Director of Suffolk County Juvenile Court Clinics. He will be remembered for his integrity, commitment and deep empathy for the families and children he served.
Carrying on a cherished family tradition, Dr. Riffin would lead his children on the great annual summer hike in the White Mountains along the Appalachian Trail. Their adventures always included chocolate and selected readings of Winnie the Pooh by one of the elders, essential sustenance providing a necessary boost along the way to the AMC huts.
Over his lifetime, he ran in countless local road races and day-long bike tours with friends, usually ending at his beloved Marion by the sea. His interests included playing the cello, making furniture, tending to his grape arbor and gardening.
A pillar of dignity and courage, Dr. Riffin persevered for over 20 years despite living with a rare form of cancer. His journey during these final 2 decades of his life was emblematic of his quiet resolve, noble spirit and fierce determination embodied in every facet of his existence.
His love of the arts and literature began in his childhood with yearly Shakespearean productions performed by him and the neighborhood children; costumes designed and sewn by their moms. For decades, he enjoyed season tickets to the plays at the Huntington Theatre; in fact, just days before his death, he watched the final play written by one of his favorite playwrights, August Wilson.
A memorial service will be held at Story Chapel at Mt. Auburn Cemetery Cambridge MA on April 2 at 1pm. Reception to follow. Donations may be made to Adolescent Consultation Services 189 Cambridge St Cambridge MA 02141 or The Judge Ireland Fund 10 Hawthorne Rd Londonderry NH 03053. Both benefit court-involved children and families in Greater Boston.