Grace Lucille Burgess' Obituary
Grace Lucille Burgess, age 98, passed away on February 4, 2026. Born on May 31, 1927, in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of the late Julia and Henry F. Arnold. Grace lived a long, full, and generous life defined by devotion to family, faith, and community.
Grace was first married to the late Elmer J. “Bud” Wolf, with whom she shared many cherished years. She later married the late Edson C. Burgess, her loving companion in her later life. She is survived by her son, Thomas A. Wolf, who brought her immense pride and joy. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Lawrence (Marybelle) Arnold and Lester (Winifred) Arnold. Grace is lovingly remembered by her nephew, Richard (Marilyn) Arnold, three nephews from Rochester, NY, and her great-niece and great-nephews—Christine, Robert, and Daniel—all of whom she held close to her heart.
A graduate of James Ford Rhodes High School, Grace began her career as a secretary to the personnel director at Alcoa, where she worked from 1945 to 1955. Afterward, she dedicated herself to creating a warm and welcoming home. Grace was a gifted hostess who delighted in bringing people together, whether for family gatherings, church events, or celebrations of any kind.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Grace was a 58-year member of West Park United Church of Christ, where she served faithfully on the Board of Deaconess. She poured her creativity and kindness into her longtime volunteer work at the Fairview Hospital gift shop, where she and her dear friend, Grace Green, served as toy buyers. Her imaginative window displays were a frequent source of compliments and joy.
Grace was also an avid traveler, visiting Hawaii seven times and Europe seven times, embracing each journey with curiosity and gratitude.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Park United Church of Christ, 3909 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland, OH 44111, or the Cleveland Animal Protective League.
Grace’s life was one of warmth, generosity, and steadfast love. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Visitation is Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 6-7:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070, where her funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM.
Grace’s family kindly requests no online condolences.
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