Grace S. Bakhit

Grace S. Bakhit

April 4, 1926 – May 29, 2023

She is preceded in death by her husband, Alphonse; sons, Noel Bakhit, Ibraham Bakhit. She is survived by her son, Anthony (Barbara) Bakhit, Elizabeth (Walter) Obal, Mary Elder; daughters-in-law, Marilyn Bakhit, Barbara Bakhit; 15 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild.

VISITATION:  Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel, followed by VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Saturday, June 3, 2023, 9:30am, St. James Catholic Church, 4710 N. 90th St. INTERMENT: Mt. Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

In Memory of a Beloved Matriarch: Graziella (Grace) Sultane Bakhit. Grace, a woman who left a mark on the hearts of all who knew her, passed away peacefully on May 29th, 2023. Surrounded by her loving family, she took on her final journey, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories.

Born on April 4, 1926, in El Salvador, Grace’s remarkable life story would touch the lives of countless individuals. At a young age, she moved to Jerusalem, Palestine, where she attended Schmidt’s Girls College. In 1938, Grace married her soulmate, Alphonse Anton Bakhit. Their love became an inspiration to all who witnessed it. Grace and Alphonse settled in Ein Karem, Palestine.

In 1956, the Bakhit family embarked on a new chapter as they immigrated to the United States. They were sponsored by the Paden family, who extended their hands in friendship and support during a time of great change and uncertainty. Grace’s courage and determination in embracing this new homeland and culture exemplified her resilient spirit. Grace worked for Pendleton as a seamstress as well as factory production at Butternut Coffee before retiring solely as a homemaker.

Throughout her life, Grace touched the lives of many with her gentle nature, unwavering love, and unending faith. She was a beacon of light and a source of wisdom for her children, she leaves behind: Anthony Bakhit (Barbara), Elizabeth Obal (Walter) and Mary Elder, her daughters-in-law Barbara Bakhit and Marilynn Bakhit. Grace will forever be cherished as a grandmother to her fifteen adoring grandchildren, a great-grandmother to 28 little ones who brought joy to her heart, and a great-great-grandmother to two.

Grace was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alphonse, and her dear sons Noel and Ibrahim. Their reunion in heaven brings solace to our grieving hearts, knowing they are once again together, watching over us with love.

As we gather to bid farewell to this remarkable woman, let us celebrate the life of Grace. Her love was the anchor that held our family together, and her spirit will forever guide us through life’s joys and challenges.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to all those who have offered their condolences, support, and prayers during this difficult time. Grace’s departure leaves a void in our lives, but her spirit will forever live on in our hearts. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we find comfort in the memories we shared with her.