Grace (Cripps) Kennedy, formerly of Benton

Grace (Cripps) Kennedy, 76, a former resident of Benton and West Frankfort, passed away at her home in Florida on Saturday, March 11, 2023, surrounded by family, following a long illness.

Grace was a retired nurse's aide and phlebotomist who had worked for hospitals in the Franklin and Williamson County areas. She was an active member of the Pyramid Players theatrical association for many years. She enjoyed singing, visiting family and friends, taking cruises and road trips, and holding court at the pool of her Floridian retirement community where she was involved in the local choir.

Grace is survived by her husband, David Gutmann of Homosassa, Fla.; her children, Christopher Cripps and wife Géraldine of Paris, France, Theresa Cripps Ellis and husband Shane of Clarksville, Tenn., Timothy Cripps and wife Carrie Peacock of Collierville, Tenn., and Matthew Cripps of Clarksville, Tenn.; her sister, Andrea Merz, and her brother, Jack Schiro, both of Michigan; and many nieces and nephews.

Grace will continue to watch over her seven grandchildren (Brittani, Ryan, Keely, Damian, Rylie, Parker, and Aidan) and two great-grandchildren (Hadley and Margo).

Her stepchildren, Edward Gutmann, Daniel Gutmann and Dawn Dennis, and step-grandchildren D.J. and Addy, all from central Illinois, share in the family's sorrow.

The family wishes to thank the many people who knew Grace and touched her life over the years.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 22 at 10:30 a.m. with Father Urban Osuji officiating, with visitation on Tuesday, March 21 at Morton and Johnston Funeral Home, 410 S. Main St. in Benton. Burial will be in the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Grace's name to the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be sent to mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com.

A Circle of Life memorial will be held for Grace in Homosassa, Fla., at a later date.