Grace Elizabeth Carini

Grace Elizabeth Carini, 94 entered into the presence of the Lord April 2, 2025 two days before she would have turned 95.

Born on April 4, 1930, in New London Connecticut. Daughter of Victor Bolt Fricke Gilbert and Renna Irene (Ballard) Gilbert. Married William Thompson (deceased) on May 8, 1948. Had one daughter Brenda Grace (Thompson) Frank.

Married Peter L. Carini (deceased) December 18, 1964. He was her soul mate and forever missed him. Survived by her daughter Brenda, son-in-law Richard Frank and 3 step-grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, 8 great-great grandchildren and 2 great-great-great Grandchildren. As well as many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her brothers Victor Fricke Gilbert (wife Imogene) Donald James Gilbert (wife Marie) and John Allen Gilbert (wife Elizabeth).

She attended Grace Baptist Church in Ramsey NJ, then Broken Arrow Baptist Church in Cochise, AZ. For many years she worked with the children doing arts & crafts at Broken Arrow summer camp.

Her favorite hymn was “Amazing Grace” and her favorite color was red.

Grace had an interesting life. She worked as an airline stewardess 1954-1956. Wright Aeronautical for a few years, then for Volkswagen of America for 11 years.

She started and ran her own business Drake Ceramics for 31 years with her partner Paul Eric Hellmuth (deceased) in Phoenix Arizona.

Grace loved animals and was always rescuing them. They included a baby squirrel, 2 golden ringneck pheasants, wild and domestic rabbits, a robin, many dogs and a tremendous number of cats.

We rejoice in the promise of eternal life. 

Memorial service will be May 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM at

Broken Arrow Baptist Church

1538 N Hwy 191

Cochise, AZ 8506