Grace Marie Lewis

Born on January 2, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Grace grew up surrounded by the love of her family. She carried that love with her throughout her life, becoming a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, and friend. Her strong and enduring faith in God was a guiding light from her earliest days and only deepened with time.

In her youth, Grace took great pride in working as a paralegal in Center City, Philadelphia. When she welcomed her two children, James and Lori into the world, being a devoted mother and wife became her highest calling—a role she embraced with unwavering dedication and care.

After raising her children, Grace returned to the workforce as a bookkeeper for Bob and Betty Gordon of Century 21 Real Estate. There, she formed lifelong friendships that she treasured deeply. No matter what she was doing she always took time to care for others, whether it be her parents, her grandchildren, her friends or neighbors. Grace took great pride in her home and cherished the years she spent in Berks County, Pennsylvania, with her beloved husband George. Their marriage spanned 51 beautiful years until George’s passing—a loss that was profoundly difficult.

Following George’s passing, Grace made the courageous decision to move to Florida to be closer to her children. Though it meant leaving behind her brother Jim, sister Nettie, nieces, nephews, and dear friends in Pennsylvania, she faced the transition with resilience and leaned on her faith for strength. Despite not being fond of change or the Florida heat, Grace adapted with grace and gratitude for the opportunity to be near her family.

Grace found joy in life’s simple pleasures—taking walks, frequenting the grocery store where she showcased an impressive knack for finding the best deals- and reminiscing about the "good ole days" filled with jitterbugs and family gatherings. She had a gentle spirit and a childlike enthusiasm for everyday moments that brought happiness to those around her.

Her kindness was evident in countless small acts of generosity. Even when not feeling her best, Grace would often leave little bags of treats on neighbors’ door handles accompanied by heartfelt notes saying: “Just a little something to make you smile.” Helping others was not just something she did—it was central to who she was.

Grace is lovingly remembered by her son James Lewis and his wife Laura; her daughter Lori Pratico and partner Diane Fennekohl; her sister Antoinette (Nettie) Rainey and brother-in-law Robert Rainey; her sister-in-law Charlotte Manlio; and her daughter-in-law Debbie McBride.

She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren: Gianni Pratico and fiancée Paige Applebaum; Grace Pratico and partner Eliza Greco; Julia Lewis and partner Josh Loebig; and Caroline Puleo and husband Andrew Puleo

Grace's memory will also be cherished by her nieces and nephews: Jamie Poserina and husband Mark Poserina; Becky Lewis and husband Michael Lewis; Robert Rainey and wife Kari Rainey; as well as by her great-nephews and nieces.

In addition to these beloved family members, Grace is survived by cousins, relatives, and friends who held a special place in her heart.

She is preceded in death by her loving parents James and Julia Manlio; her beloved husband George Lewis; her brother James Manlio; and niece Pamela Manlio.

Grace’s unwavering love, gentle spirit, and selfless kindness leave an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

As she wished to share with everyone:

_When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand,_

_That an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand,_

_and said my place was ready, in heaven far above,_

_and that I'd have to leave behind All those I dearly love..._

_So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart,_

_for every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart._

May Grace’s memory bring comfort to all whose lives she touched.

Donations may be made to a place very special to Grace and George Lewis: The National Centre for Padre Pio https://www.padrepio.org/donate/