Grace E. Hardy, age 81, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2026. She was born in Jackson, MI, on December 4, 1944, the daughter of the late John and Mary (Brune) Brinson. Grace was a kind, loving and genuine woman, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing her would agree. She always wanted to know everything about you and wouldn’t forget a thing you told her. She had a story for everything and a servant’s heart. She also had a deep love for children which led to a career in childhood education. She earned degrees from the University of Michigan and Western Michigan University. She began as a first-grade teacher and transitioned into several areas of child care. She specialized in the Head Start program and worked diligently to start and develop programs throughout the country. For many years she lived in and worked for the state of Colorado. Once she retired in 2013, she moved back to Michigan to be with her family. Besides helping children Grace enjoyed cooking, spending time with family and friends, loved her pet cats and an occasional trip to the casino. Though she never had children of her own, her nieces became her daughters, and she leaves them with many special memories to cherish. Grace was a loving sister, aunt, and friend who leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. She is survive by her sister, Lois (Terry) Bussema; two nieces, Wendy (David) French, Peggy Holder; four great-nieces and nephews, Ryan (Caitlin) Powell, RaeLee (Nick) Nimmo, Parker and James Holder; seven great-great nieces and nephews, Ellis, Finley, Marley, Kansas, Kade, Chaz and Skylar; other extended family and friends. She was preceded in passing by her, husband Robert Smith.