

Grace S. Anton, 76, passed away on Monday, October 5th, 2026 in Virginia, the state she called home for 46 years and where she raised her family. Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, Grace lived a life defined by love, determination and resilience.
Grace did not do anything halfway. When she put her mind to something, it was going to be done exceptionally well. Whether organizing the Fun Fair as PTA president at her daughters’ school, helping redecorate a friend’s home, or decking out the house for every holiday and new season. She approached everything with creativity and an eye for detail. She had strong opinions, high standards, and a clear sense of what she wanted, and wasn’t shy about sharing it.
Above all, Grace was a devoted and protective mother. Her daughters were the center of her world. She shared a love of art and design with her daughter Emily, while Margaret, the baby of the family, brought out Grace’s playful side. She took great pride in her daughters and poured her energy into making a beautiful, loving home for them. The loss of her daughter Elizabeth was an unimaginable loss, and she carried that grief with the same strength and resilience that got her through so many of life’s challenges.
Grace had a gift for friendship and community. She cultivated a close group of women who became an incredibly important part of her life, sharing meals, trips, celebrations, and laughter. She loved having people in her home and was an impeccable host. A meal at Grace’s house was never simply a meal, it was an occasion, there was a theme. She was an excellent cook, known for Italian favorites like eggplant parmesan and spaghetti and meatballs.
Grace loved to travel and see new places, and she approached the world with curiosity. But she was happiest at the beach, where she found a particular sense of joy and peace.
For the last two plus years of her life, Grace faced a serious illness with remarkable strength and perseverance. During that time, the community she had built around herself showed up for her in extraordinary ways. Friends and neighbors offered companionship, care, and countless acts of kindness. Her caregiver, Anna, became a beloved member of the family. Grace was deeply fortunate to be surrounded by people who cared for her and stood by her through the final chapter of her life.
Grace is survived by her daughters, Emily and Margaret (Steven Colman); her siblings Christine Mezzina (Sergio), Frank Spadaro (Carol), Larry Spadoro, Joyce Spadoro, and Philip Spadaro; nine nieces and nephews; and countless extended family and beloved friends. She was predeceased by her daughter, Elizabeth, and her parents, Praga and Angelo Spadoro.
Grace will be remembered for her devotion to her family and friends and the beauty and care she brought to everything she did. She will be missed dearly.
Funeral Services
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 3513 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20007, on Tuesday, October 13 at 10:30 am. There will be a period of visitation prior to the funeral mass in the Parish Center & Chapel of the church on Tuesday morning at 9:30 am.
An interment ceremony will follow immediately after the mass in National Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 7482 Lee Hwy, Falls Church, VA 22042.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Grace’s memory to the Elizabeth Anton Habitat for Humanity Fund. Please note that gifts should be made out to Greater Houston Community Foundation and should reference "DESNED-1350" or "Elizabeth Anton Habitat for Humanity Fund." The link to the gift instructions is listed below on the memorial page.
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