Ann was born near Grain Valley, MO, to Clyde W. and Marguerite O’Brien Corn on April 12, 1936. Ann was a graduate of Lee’s Summit High School, and of the University of Central Missouri (Central Missouri State University) where she met and married Bill B. Grace. Born to that union were Gretchen M. (Kim) Grace Harrison, Andrea D. (Bill) Grace Mack and Todd A. (Cheryl) Grace. Ann and Bill met while attending college at the University of Central Missouri in 1954. They married in Vaingen, Germany, on Dec. 30, 1958, while Bill was completing his service in the United States 7th Army Band. Ann taught choral music at Center South Junior High in the Center School District, developed a vibrant preschool music curriculum, and has been a professional pianist and organist for over 60 years. For the past 35 years, she has been the organist/pianist at the Tenth Church – Christ Scientist. She created a collegiate a cappella ensemble named The Collegiates, performing contemporary music that Ann arranged. She graduated with honors and received the Charno Award as the outstanding female student.
Ann’s love of family could not be adequately described nor surpassed. She beamed with pride at all Oak Park and professional events with Bill at state, regional, and national levels. She delighted at any academic, athletic, and musical activities of Gretchen, Andrea, and Todd. Later, she relished in the achievements of her beloved grandchildren, Kellyn, Logan, Cole, Carter, Nathan, Parker, and Garrison. Ann flourished in the knowledge that she was continuing a tradition that was set to her by her parents, Bill’s parents, and all grandparents. Passing the love for family and Christ down to her children and grandchildren was her most cherished action. She marveled in the legacy she lived and shared. In her words, “What a wonderful legacy.”
Ann was preceded in death by her parents Clyde W. and Marguerite, her brother Roy Arlan, an infant son, and a grandson, James Carter.
