Isabelle W. Brace

Mrs. Isabelle W. Brace (nee Smith), of Cedar Springs, MI passed into the presence of her Lord on Monday, April 8, 2019, at home surrounded by her family. Isabelle was born on February 27, 1930 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and lived, volunteered and worshiped in Cedar Springs for 73 years.  She was preceded in death by parents, Frank and Elsie (Millard) Smith; husband, Charles Brace; and two great-grandchildren.  She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Smith; children, Paul (June) Brace, Esther Rapa, Timothy Brace, Rhoda (Hans) Nielsen, Nathan (Mary Beth) Brace, Rachel (Marc) Dibble, and Sarah (Conner) Smith; 42 grandchildren; and 42 great grandchildren (with 2 more on the way). Isabelle graduated from Cedar Springs Public Schools in 1948, and Baptist Bible Institute in 1959.  She worked at Mary Free Bed and Carbonneau Industries. She was also a Volunteer Extraordinaire: she directed Cedar Springs Community Night for 25 years, chaired the Community Action Network, and volunteered for Cedar Springs Education Boosters, First Baptist Church of Cedar Springs, and Snow Bible Church.  At church, she taught preschool kids at various children’s programs throughout the years.  Isabelle also is remembered for her special gift of hospitality–her door was always open to anyone who needed a meal or a place to stay. The family will greet friends Friday from 6-8 pm at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. Visitation will continue Saturday at 12:00 pm at Grace Evangelical Free Church, 4714 13 Mile Road, Rockford where the service will be held at 1:00 pm. Pastor Thomas Cavanaugh officiating. Interment Idlewild Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Snow Bible Church or the family to help with expenses.