The daughter of Lawrence and Josephine (Cirlincuina) Cipolla, Grace was born in 1931 and grew up in Kansas City's close-knit neighborhood known as the Northend. She took great pride in her heritage and the traditions of life in "Little Italy". She developed a passion for genealogy, and delighted in learning about her family history. A 1948 graduate of Manual High School, she sang in the choir, wrote for the school newspaper, and contributed articles to the local edition of Prom Magazine. Following graduation, she worked in Kansas City's garment district for the Pachter Garment Company, specializing in women's coats and suits.
On September 17, 1952, Grace married Ronald Brewer. As a young mother, she cherished weekly gatherings with her best friends Rose Cirna, Dixie Mistretta, and Annie Forte to cook Italian recipes while their children played. The family later moved to Gladstone, where Grace enjoyed serving as a Cub Scout Den Mother for Pack 180. She later returned to the workforce at McPike Drug Company (later FoxMeyer), retiring in 1993 after 23 years of service. In retirement, she enjoyed crafting, reading biographies, staying close with her sister Rosetta and good friends Jan and Mike Timmons, and caring for her family.
Grace was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Josephine; her husband of 54 years, Ron (d. 2007); and her son, David Brewer (d. 2024).
She is survived by her sister, Rosetta Cantwell; her children, Larry Brewer (Debbie), Jo Davenport (Jim), and Sherri Hays (Rick); her grandchildren, Christina Brewer, Jason Brewer, Derek Hays, and Dylan Hays; as well as 3 great-granddaughters and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at 1:00 PM at Newcomer’s White Chapel Funeral Home & Cemetery (6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO), followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM.
Per Grace's request, please omit flowers.
