Grace Ann Salaris

Grace Salaris, 93, of Providence Forge, Va. passed peacefully on Sunday, December 17th, with her daughter, Tina, by her side. Born in Bridgeport, CT, on July 25, 1924, to Peter and Jennie DeVito, Grace grew up in Bridgeport with her five siblings, Marie, Margie, Dan, Gene and Anthony. After graduating from Harding High School in 1942, Grace moved to Long Island where she met her husband, George. As the wife of a Marine, Sergeant Major, Grace traveled the country, living in Miami FL, Norfolk VA, Beaufort SC, Burlington VT and Glastonbury CT. While in Vermont, Grace became mother to her son Michael and daughter Tina, a role she performed to perfection. Grace’s family was always central in her life. After their children arrived, George retired from the Marine Corp and the family settled in Newtown CT. While in Newtown, Grace worked for the Newtown Police Department as an administrative assistant to the Chief of Police. In addition to her duties at the Police Department, Grace also cared for all the flags flown at the iconic “Flagpole” in the center of Newtown, sewing and mending them as necessary as Newtown’s own Betsy Ross. After more than 22 years in Newtown, Grace and George retired to Bartow FL. in 1988, living close to her sisters Marie and Margie and her brother Dan. While in Bartow, she offered her services as a volunteer at the Bartow Hospital. Grace remained in Florida for several years after George passed in 2006. Grace’s first priority was always caring for her family and friends. As many can attest, she was an amazing cook and always made room at the table for friends and neighbors. Grace was also known for her green thumb, winning many awards for her beautiful orchids. Grace was an avid bridge player frequently winning tournaments and prizes. She also loved bingo, puzzles and enjoyed passing the time with family and friends playing card games. Grace was a generous and kind-hearted person who was loved by many, none more than her children, Tina and Michael, her daughter in law, Beth and her grandchildren, Katie, George and Anthony. Grace was preceded by her brother Anthony and her sisters Marie and Margie. She is survived by her brothers Dan and Gene of Bartow, FL. A memorial service will be held 10 AM Friday, January 26, 2018 at Vincent Funeral Home in Providence Forge. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the spring in Newtown, CT. Memorial contributions may be made to: A Taste of Heaven Sanctuary, Inc., 14314 Sandy Point Rd, Charles City, VA 23030.

Grace Ann Salaris

July 25, 1924 - December 17, 2017