Grace Katherine Auberry, 99, of Centralia passed away Monday, November 29, 2021, at Mt. Vernon Countryside Manor. Grace had natural leadership qualities, working as an instructor and supervisor at the Dress Factory in Centralia for 8 years. She then was a loyal employee, bringing her intellect and fashion sense to Topper’s Apparel in Centralia for 27 years until her retirement. Grace was a lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary of V.F.W. She was a lady of action and remained active after her retirement, continuing to enjoy shopping, and decorating her home. Grace was extremely creative using her skills with quilting to make beautiful keepsakes for family and friends. She made her home comfortable and cozy, making sure to keep her yard looking nice and tending her flowers with care. Grace could brighten a room by her presence and was well respected and loved by all those who knew her.
A celebration of life graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. All family and friends are encouraged to attend. Memorials may be made in Grace’s honor to the Donor’s Choice or the House of Hope for Animals and will be accepted for the family at Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Grace may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Grace Auberry with arrangements.
Survivors that will remember Grace’s style and class include her daughter, Nancy Ann Stewart of Valley Village, California; and granddaughter, Lisa Diane Stewart of Valley Village, California.
She was born on April 26, 1922, the daughter of Harry Herbert and Myrtle (McBride) Waller in East St. Louis. She married Donald L. Auberry on September 6, 1947, in Centralia and he preceded her in death on June 17, 2000. Along with her husband, Donald Auberry, Grace was preceded in death by her parents; son, Donald Auberry Jr.; grandson, Jamie Stewart; sister, Mamie Boleen; brother, Herbert Wallar.
