Alice J. Massart

Alice J. Massart, fondly known as “Al” and “Grandma Al,” passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, in Goodyear, Arizona, at the age of 89, following complications related to a cerebrovascular event and atherosclerosis.

Born Alice Jane Elfie on September 28, 1936, in Algoma, Wisconsin, one of nine children in a close-knit Midwestern family, Alice carried her small-town warmth wherever she went. Her zest for fun was infectious – once having been a fantastic dancer and in her high school days, she brought energy and joy to the sidelines as a member of the cheerleading squad.

In 1985, she reached a meaningful turning point when she earned her Paralegal Certificate. This step forward gave her renewed independence and a sense of intellectual accomplishment outside the rhythms of domestic life.

In 2000, she relocated to Goodyear, Arizona, where she embraced a vibrant new chapter filled with sunshine, friendship, and community. A decade later, she married Thomas W. Brittain, with whom she shared years of laughter, easy conversation, home cooked meals, and loving companionship. Thomas renewed her faith and brought light into her life, giving her the deeply fulfilling final years she had longed for.

Known for her generous heart, Alice loved to cook and spent countless hours paging through magazines in search of the next great recipe to share. A devoted tennis enthusiast, she played avidly until the age of 82 and held a special admiration for tennis legend Rafael Nadal. She began each morning with a walk or bike ride and ended each day with her signature martini in hand.

Deeply rooted in her community, Alice was well known for her homemade salsas, sorbets, muffins and pies, which she shared with friends, neighbors, and even the local tennis pro at the Wigwam Resort. Her kindness extended beyond the kitchen, and she was a steady supporter of St. John Vianney School, Wounded Warriors, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital often donating clothing and funds to help those in need.

Alice was the beloved mother of Jay (Cynthia), Michelle Granger (Edward), and David (Patricia). She is survived by her sisters Laverne Meyer (Kenneth), and Louise Arneson (David), and her brother Jack Rutz (widower of the late Adriana). She was a cherished grandmother to Alexandra Stalle (Will), Jack, Benjamin, John, and David. In recent years, she embraced the sweetness of becoming a great-grandmother to Mila in 2022 and twin grandsons Harrison and Henry in 2025.

Alice’s quick wit, playful spirit and lightheartedness touched everyone she met. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished in our hearts. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Open Arms/Brazos Abiertos at St. John Vianney.