Grace Salaris, 93, of Providence Forge, Va., formerly of Newtown, died peacefully December 17, with her daughter Tina by her side. Born in Bridgeport, on July 25, 1924, to Jennie and Peter DeVito, she grew up in Bridgeport with her five siblings, Marie, Margie, Dan, Gene, and Anthony.

After graduating from Harding High School in 1942, she moved to Long Island where she met her husband, George. As the wife of a Marine sergeant major, Mrs Salaris moved around the country, living in Miami, Fla.; Norfolk, Va.; Beaufort, S.C.; Burlington, Vt.; and Glastonbury. While in Vermont, she became the mother to her son Michael and daughter Tina, a role her loved ones say she performed to perfection.

Mrs Salaris's family was always central in her life. After their children arrived, George retired from the Marine Corps and the family settled in Newtown.

While in Newtown, she worked for the Newtown Police Department as an administrative assistant to the chief of police. In addition to her duties at the Police Department, Mrs Salaris also cared for all the flags flown at the iconic flagpole in the center of Newtown, sewing and mending them as necessary as Newtown's own Betsy Ross.

After more than 22 years in Newtown, they retired to Bartow, Fla., in 1988, living next to her sisters, Marie and Margie, and her brother, Dan. While in Bartow, she volunteered at the Bartow Hospital and remained in Florida for several years after George passed in 2006.

Mrs Salaris's first priority was always caring for her family and friends. As many can attest, she was an amazing cook and always made room at the table for friends and neighbors. She was an avid bridge player, frequently winning tournaments and prizes. She loved bingo, puzzles, and enjoyed passing the time with family and friends playing card games. Mrs Salaris was also known for her green thumb, winning many awards for her beautiful orchids.

She was known as a generous and kind-hearted person who was loved by many, none more than her children, Tina and Michael; her daughter-in-law, Beth; and her grandchildren, Katie, George, and Anthony. In addition, her brothers Dan and Gene of Bartow, Fla., survive her.

Her brother Anthony; and her sisters Marie and Margie predeceased her.

The family will receive friends at 11 am, on Saturday, March 31, at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, with a memorial service following at noon.

Memorial contributions may be made to A Taste of Heaven Sanctuary, Inc, 14314 Sandy Point Road, Charles City VA 23030.