Grace Kuei Leo

We celebrate the remarkable life of Grace Kuei Leo (Liao), who died peacefully on September 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was a month shy of 93, still living independently at the time. Grace was so many things—an entrepreneur with grit, a fiercely devoted wife, a loving mom and grandmother, a loyal friend, and a free spirit who did things her own way. If you knew her, you never forgot her.

Grace was born on October 26, 1932, in Taiwan. She spent her early years there, and it was in Taipei—while working at a Post Exchange Naval base—that she met her future husband, Stanley Leo (Liao). Determined to build a better future for their family, Stanley first emigrated to the United States with Grace and the rest of the family joining him 2 years later.

Grace was blessed with God’s favor. After winning $5,000 on her very first scratch-off lottery ticket, she used the winnings to open a Chinese restaurant. That little dream grew into a beloved family business that thrived for 35 years, first in New York and later in Baltimore. Grace poured her heart into every meal she cooked, but her real passion was always her family and friends. Her kitchen was a place of laughter, warmth, wonderful smells and endless generosity.

Even after retiring to Las Vegas, Grace’s love for gathering people never faded. She hosted unforgettable meals and made the most of her days—traveling, exploring, and more than occasionally enjoying a spin at the slot machines.

She is preceded in death by her husband Stanley. Grace’s legacy lives on in her family: her daughter Julie and grandson Zachary, grand-daughter Kimmie; her son Jack Liao; son Nelsen, daughter-in-law Anna, and grandson JT; and her youngest son Bensen, daughter-in-law Mariley, their daughters Sarah (and her husband Neil Vance, daughter Eliana and another daughter soon to be born) and Charis, and their sons Corben (and his wife Abbey and their son due next February), and Carter (and his girlfriend Abigail).

Grace’s wisdom, kindness, and unstoppable spirit—her way of finding joy even in tough times—shaped all of them, and inspired everyone lucky enough to cross her path. We miss her more than words can say. But the love, the radiant beauty, and resilience Grace shared with the world are still here, carried forward by everyone who was touched by her life.

A private burial will take place on Friday, October 3. A celebration of Grace’s life is planned for October 19, 2025. Instead of flowers, we invite you to share your memories or stories about Grace.