News

DELRAY BEACH — Barbara Banta Gracey, 89, a long-time Delray Beach resident, devoted mother and grandmother and volunteer for many local causes, died March 9 in Delray Beach.
    Her death came four years to the day after the death of her husband of 59 years, Matthew Gracey.      Born in Newfane, N.Y., on Oct. 14, 1922, Mrs. Gracey cherished time spent with family and friends.   
    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.
    “In her later years, our mother’s priorities were her grandchildren,” said her daughter, Barbara Gracey Backer, of coastal Delray Beach. “She gave them the gift of her undivided one-on-one attention.  They adored her for it.  What a legacy — the gift of time!”
    Added Mrs. Gracey’s son, Matthew Gracey Jr.: “She was a very devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend as well as giving generously of her time and energy to any number of Delray’s institutions.”
    Mrs. Gracey grew up in the suburbs of Buffalo, N.Y.  Following the death of her parents, she lived with her aunt Florence Boughton, whose family owned the Colony hotels in Kennebunkport, Maine, and Delray Beach.
    Mrs. Gracey was working in the gift shop at the Colony Hotel in Delray Beach where she met Matthew Gracey, who had come to Delray Beach with his family after World War II. Mr. Gracey worked at his family’s nearby company, Gracey Bros. insurance and real estate. They wed in 1948.
    Mrs. Gracey is survived by her children Barbara G. Backer (Ronald); Matthew Gracey, Jr.; all of Delray Beach; and daughter Susan J. Gracey of Little Rock, Ark. She is also survived by grandchildren John G. Backer, Ian T. Gracey, David C. Backer, Katherine G. Backer and Stuart H. Gracey.
    The family wishes to thank the Rev. William “Chip” Stokes and the Stephen Ministers at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for their spiritual care, as well as Mrs. Gracey’s caregivers Beryl, Elpher, Michelle and Rhoda.  
    A memorial service was held March 15 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
    In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church or the American Cancer Society.