Grace Ann Friend of Rockford, IL, died on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at the age of 65. She was born in Chicago, IL, to the late William and Shirley (Smith) Joynt on July 9, 1957. Upon graduating high school in Elgin, Illinois, Grace went to beauty school in Elgin. She met Dennis Gene Friend, and they married on November 15, 1980. Together they had three children: Gregory (JoLynne) Friend of Hebron, IL; Alesandra (Todd) Laird of Belvidere, IL; and Christa Friend of Rockford, IL. Also surviving are four grandchildren: Elliot and Nathaniel Friend; and Ethan and Chloe Laird. Further survivors include sister-in-law Sandra Barham, sister Marie Wesselhoft, brother-in-law Charles Wesselhoft, nieces Erin, Emily and Lauren, nephew Jay, and various cousins across the country.

Grace grew up in Streamwood, IL, attending Elgin High School. At an early age she developed a love of dance, writing, and dogs that would remain with her all her life. She was always "on the move" participating in dance and cheerleading during her school years. She was a pied piper in her teens attracting all the young kids in the neighborhood. They would come to the door asking if, "Gracie could come out to play." The backyard was always filled with kids and fun!

After completing beauty school in Elgin, she worked as a beautician for much of her life. She established a salon in her basement, allowing her to be home with her family while working. Her work was also her ministry helping her to make people feel beautiful inside and out. She was very involved in her childrens' activities and their school extracurricular events. She was an active member of St. Marcelline's Catholic Parish in Schaumburg IL. Grace became very involved with the Marfan Foundation after she was diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome in her thirties. She served several years on the board of the local Northern IL chapter of the Marfan Foundation. She pursued every activity with great gusto.

Grace was loved by so many people. She was remarkable. She saw the best in everyone through the lens of goodness. Her family was front and center. Grace loved her children and was their biggest cheerleader throughout their journey in life. She was always there to reassure her children through every step of the way. Grace loved her grandchildren with every fiber of her being. She loved reading them books, completing puzzles, playing with play-dough and just simply enjoying their energy. She loved watching them run in circles chasing each other, screaming in delight throughout her house. Her faith was a hallmark in her life even until the last hour. Her love of the Lord filled pages of her diary, her writings, and poetry. Her creativity wove its way into all her crafts, decorating, and gardens. She made the best out of every challenge, facing life with courage, indomitable spirit, and humor. She was a dear person with a beautiful, intrepid spirit. Her life was well lived and will be an inspiration for us all.

The family will hold a visitation from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday (12/6) at Anderson Funeral, 218 W. Hurlbut Avenue, Belvidere IL 61008. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday (12/7) at St. James Catholic Church, 402 Church Street, Belvidere, IL 61008 with a procession to Highland Garden of Memories for the burial at 9800 IL-76, Belvidere, IL 61008. Luncheon details will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the Marfan Foundation at https://www.marfan.org/ . Indicate that your donations are made in memory of Grace A. Friend.