Lena Frances Grace

Lena Frances Grace, age 80, passed away peacefully in Norco, California, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 17th, 1944, Lena was a beloved wife,a loving sister, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met.

Lena was known for her unwavering strength and nurturing spirit. She dedicated her life to her family, always putting their needs above her own. Her laughter and love will be profoundly missed by her husband Jack, her two sisters, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who cherished every moment spent with her.

Lena’s passion for bowling and her commitment to her friends and family reflected her vibrant personality. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Lena Frances Grace will be deeply missed but will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

To my beautiful, loving mother,

I am filled with a mix of sorrow and gratitude. Leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. You were not just my mother; you were my very best friend, my greatest supporter, and my guiding light.

From my earliest memories, Mom enveloped me in a world of warmth and safety. Her love was a constant in my life, providing a sense of security that allowed me to grow and flourish. No matter the challenges I faced, I always knew I could turn to her for comfort and encouragement. Her hugs were a sanctuary, a place where I could escape the worries of the world.

Growing up, I watched my mom exemplify a strong work ethic as she raised me and my sister, while helping my dad transform their gas station and auto repair business from the ground up. From the very beginning, she was involved in every aspect of the business, whether it was managing finances, organizing schedules, or engaging with customers. Her unwavering commitment meant that she often put in long hours, balancing her responsibilities at home and at work seamlessly. Often times, she would bring me and my sister to help out at work. I remember spending much of my summer break from school hanging out in the office as she worked. A lot of what I witnessed on those days taught me that hard work is not just about the hours you log but about the dedication and passion you bring to everything you do. Her example showed me the value of perseverance and the importance of believing in your vision, even when the journey feels daunting.

As their business flourished, earning recognition for the highest sales growth multiple times, my mom's resilience and determination shone even brighter. I vividly remember the excitement that filled our home when they won trips as rewards for their hard work. Each achievement was a testament to their combined efforts and the strong foundation they built as a family. My mom would often emphasize that success is a team effort and that the support we give each other makes all the difference. Through her actions, I learned that a good work ethic goes beyond just personal ambition; it’s about uplifting those around you and working together toward common goals, a lesson that continues to guide me in my own pursuits.

Mom had a remarkable gift of making everyone feel special. She truly loved people with all her heart, and that love was evident in everything she did. Her home was a haven for family and friends alike, where laughter echoed and joy filled the air. Family gatherings, which she orchestrated with such care, will forever remain etched in my memory. The meals she prepared were not just food; they were expressions of her love, each dish a reflection of her warmth and generosity. My mom always insisted on preparing our family holiday meals, understanding how busy everybody was and wanting to spare us the extra work. Her selflessness and thoughtfulness in taking on this responsibility not only ensured our celebrations were special but also taught me the importance of family and support during the hectic times.

One of my greatest joys was shopping with Mom. Whether we were hunting for the perfect outfit or picking out gifts for loved ones, these trips were more than just outings, they were opportunities for us to bond, share secrets, and create lasting memories. She taught me everything I know about style, grace, and the importance of finding joy in everyday moments. Her infectious laughter and sense of humor made even the simplest days feel special.

Mom’s giving spirit extended beyond our family. She had the ability to touch the lives of everyone she met. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers felt her kindness. Always looking for ways to uplift others. Her compassion inspired me to embrace life with an open heart, just as she did.

As I reflect on my life with her, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the lessons she instilled in me. She taught me the value of kindness, the importance of family, and the joy of living in the moment. Her unwavering belief in me gave me the courage to chase my dreams and to be the person I am today.

Although my heart aches with her absence, I find peace in knowing that her spirit lives on in the love she shared. I promise to honor her memory by embodying the values she instilled in me and by sharing her kindness with the world.

Rest in peace, dear Mom. I know you are looking down smiling and will always be my beautiful angel on my shoulder. You will always be my heart, my inspiration, and my greatest love. Thank you for every moment, lesson, and every hug. I will carry your love with me always.

"Dear God, thank You for the gift of my mother. Her love and wisdom shaped my life in ways I can never fully express. Though she is no longer with us, I find solace in the promise of eternal life and the belief that she is in Your presence, free from pain and filled with peace.

Lord, as I grieve her absence, I ask for Your comfort and strength. May I carry her spirit in my heart, cherishing the memories we shared. Help me honor her legacy by living a life filled with love, compassion, and faith, just as she taught me. Amen."

Angelina