Barbara Banta Gracey, 89, died on Friday, March 09, 2012 in Delray Beach, Florida, four years to the day after the death of her beloved husband, Matthew Gracey.
Born in Lockport, NY on October 14, 1922, Barbara is predeceased by her parents, Thomas A. Banta and Gratia M. Banta, her aunt Florence M. Boughton and her brothers Thomas A. Banta and John S. Banta. She is survived by her children Barbara G. Backer (Ronald), Susan J. Gracey and Matthey Gracey, Jr.; her grandchildren John G. Backer, Ian T. Gracey, David C. Backer, Katherine G. Backer and Stuart H. Gracey; her sister-in-law Maude E. Banta; her goddaughter Hilary M. Roche and beloved nieces and nephews and their families.
Barbara Gracey was a devoted mother and grandmother. She cherished time spent with the people she loved. To her family, she passed along her love of family, her love of God and her kind and generous heart. She loved St. Paul's Episcopal Church, her volunteer work at Bethesda Hospital and The Turnover Shop, her friends at Sewing and Supper Club, The Colony Cabana Club, walking on the beach, reading, and especially being with each grandchild one-on-one.
Barbara grew up on the suburbs of Buffalo, NY. Following the death of her parents, she lived with her aunt Florence Boughton. She worked in the gift shops at The Colony Hotels in Kennebunkport, ME and Delray Beach, FL. This is where she met Matthew Gracey, who had come to Delray Beach with his family after World War II. They wed in 1948 and were married for 59 years.
The family wishes to thank Fr. Chip Stokes and the Stephen Ministers at St. Paul's Episcopal Church for their spiritual care, as well as Barbara's caregivers Beryl, Elpher, Michelle, and Rhoda.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 15, 2012 at 11:00 AM at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 188 South Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Paul's Episcopal Church or The American Cancer Society.
Lorne & Sons Funeral Home, Delray Beach in charge of arrangements.