Gracia Irene Richardson was born to English immigrants as the youngest of nine children in Mumford, New York, where she lived most of her school years on the family farm. Gracia made many positive differences for others throughout her lifetime, which included while in school she successfully petitioned to have the name of her parent’s street changed to Brookside Drive, reflecting the scenic babbling brook that ran by their home.
Gracia married Calvin Stewart on October 15, 1950. They raised their four children in North Bergen until 1970, when they moved to Ft Worth, Texas. Among other careers, Gracia worked for American Airlines, which allowed her and Calvin to travel the world with several trips to England visiting relatives, Europe, and Hawaii. In 1992 Calvin and Gracia retired to Beaver Lake, Ark., where they built their own home and lived until Calvin’s passing in 2014.
Gracia enjoyed raising her four children, the bountiful rewards of her green thumb, entertaining family and friends, and dabbling in the arts. She was an inspiration of grace and kindness, always blessing us with that wonderful contagious smile and laughter.
Gracia is preceded in death by her parents, eight siblings and husband, Calvin. She is survived by her four children, Lon Stewart, Sally Livingston, Susan Stewart, and Sidney Stewart; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She will be laid to rest with her beloved husband in the Olivet Cemetery in Covington, New York.
Gracia courageously fought a silent battle with cancer while keeping her dignity. We have all been blessed to have her in our lives.
Cards and condolences may be sent to: c/o Susan Stewart, 816 Riviera Drive, Mansfield, TX 76063.