Joanne Massa Grace

Joanne Massa Grace February 18, 1936 – July 18, 2011 Locally renowned artist Joanne Massa Grace passed away early Monday morning after a long term illness. Joanne, a 42 year resident of Ocean Springs, MS., was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. Joanne was married for 56 years to the love of her life, Matthew Alexander Grace, Jr. Together, they had seven children: Leslie Jo Grace McFadden, Mark Alan Grace (Paula Rychtar), Keith Austin Grace (Rebecca), Nancy Lee Grace (Lloyd Marine), Kelley Elizabeth Grace (Thomas Lintz) and Shannon Scott Grace Pfeiffer (Michael). Joanne leaves behind her sister, Nancy Lee Discon of Mandeville, LA and her brother Kenneth Camilo Massa of Memphis, TN. She had eleven grandchildren whom she cherished and to whom she will always remain their “GG”. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. Joanne was pre-deceased by her parents, Camilo “Jack” Massa and Thelma Greaves Massa as well as her infant daughter Colleen Carole Grace and loving son-in-law Rick Thomas McFadden. Joanne was an acclaimed watercolorist whose works are featured in many private collections, housed in the United States Senate, the Mississippi State Capital and other State and government buildings. Joanne’s coveted Mississippi Coast painting graced the cover of the Coast phone directory and her themed pieces were sought after by many gulf coast civic and cultural organizations. She was the illustrator for a children’s book, The Legend. Joanne began her art career as a child and quickly established herself by winning judged art shows. She was passionate about her art and always made it a priority in her life. Joanne was a graduate of Newcomb College in New Orleans and studied under several nationally prominent artists. She was especially fond of teaching art classes to local children. Joanne Grace was the epitome of the true “Southern Lady”. Always the gracious hostess, a gourmet chef, the Queen of Birthdays, a water lover and avid gardener. She enjoyed her life, her family and her many friends. Those who were fortunate to know Joanne were graced by her warmth, humor, love and especially, her smile. In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations in her name, to the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center School of the Arts (online at www.themaryc.org or by phone 228-818-2878). Visitation is Thursday, July 21, 2011 from 12:30 to 1:30, with a 1:30pm Celebration of Life at the Ocean Springs Chapel of the Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, 911 Porter Avenue. Interment will follow at the Biloxi National Cemetery.