Grace E. Fava, 77, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Grace leaves behind a legacy of creativity, fierce resilience, and an unwavering devotion to her family.

Grace was a true artist who could do anything with her hands. An avid gardener, Grace poured her heart into tending her beautiful plants, with a particular passion for her rose bushes. To those who knew her, her memory will forever live on in the bloom of every rose.  

Grace was also proud to have been part of the fight for women’s rights and helped blaze a path for women in the workforce during a very different time in history. In recent years, she shared stories with her family about  attending women’s rights protests — a reflection of the quiet courage, independence, and conviction that defined her life

Above all, Grace was a dedicated wife, mother, a rock, a best friend, and a confidant to her children. She was always her children's biggest cheerleader.

The final decade of Grace’s life brought serious health challenges with COPD and heart issues. She was the toughest person many will ever know, fighting hard for a very long time. While her family takes comfort in knowing she is finally at peace and free from suffering, they will forever cherish the quality time they spent by her side. 

They choose to remember her not by her illness, but as she truly was: vibrant, incredibly talented, fun-loving, and full of life.

Grace is survived by her beloved husband, Carl Fava; her loving children, Christopher Fava and Jacqueline Fava; and her dear brothers, Joseph LaFranzo and Ralph LaFranzo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frances and Frank LaFranzo; her sister, Rosemarie; and her brothers, Michael and Frank, Jr. She is also held in love by a host of extended family and dear friends who will miss her more than words can express.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor, remember, and celebrate Grace’s beautiful life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S Madison St, Willowbrook, IL.

On Wednesday, May 20, 2026 family and friends will meet at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home from 9:00AM until time of funeral service 10:00AM followed by interment at Mount Carmel Cemetery.  

All who knew and loved Grace are welcome to attend.