Gracie Ax

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Gracie Ann Ax, who passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2026, at the age of 50.

Born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in the Catholic faith, Gracie spent much of her childhood in Stamford, New York, A proud Italian woman from the Bronx, she carried her strength, humor, resilience, and unmistakable spirit with her throughout her life.

Gracie dedicated much of her adult life to caring for others. As a devoted Certified Nursing Assistant at Chase Memorial Nursing Home, Valley View Rehabilitation Center, and Pathfinder Village, she provided comfort, dignity, and compassion to those in her care. She was especially gifted in end-of-life care, offering kindness, reassurance, and companionship to patients and their families during life’s most difficult transitions. Caring for others was more than a profession to Gracie—it was a calling.

Those who knew Gracie will remember her as authentic, spirited, tenacious, and unforgettable. In a world that often expects women to be quiet, Gracie was anything but. She was outspoken, fearless, and never afraid to advocate for the people she loved. She stood up for those who felt unheard, offered support to those who needed it most, and remained fiercely loyal to her family and friends. Beneath her strong exterior was a generous heart and a deep capacity for love.

Her coworkers often recalled how she could turn even the longest shift into one filled with laughter, making a long shift go by faster, and She had a gift for lifting spirits and making difficult days a little easier for everyone around her.

Following the loss of her beloved partner, David, Gracie devoted herself to raising their son, Christopher, while continuing her career in healthcare. As a single mom She worked tirelessly, sacrificed often, and gave of herself freely. Christopher was the center of her world, and she took great pride in the young man he was becoming. She was just beginning to teach him to drive and was so proud to see him attend his first Prom. Nothing she wanted more than to see him succeed and be happy.

Though she worked hard and rarely made time for herself, Gracie found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved unique fashion, bright colors, bold patterns, and anything that sparkled. A collector of Hello Kitty memorabilia, she never lost her playful spirit. Known by many as the “Dunkin’ Queen,” that was her guilty pleasure. Coffee and a dream, She loved chocolate, sunny days at the beach, shopping for the people she loved, she also enjoyed nice Italian dinners and was famous for her pasta salad a signature dish no one could resist she Proud of her Italian heritage, she was bold and fearless she wouldn’t stand down to anyone.

Family was important to Gracie, and she treasured the relationship she rebuilt with her sister Maria. Though her children’s journeys were different, Christopher and Kasey were two of the greatest loves of her life.

Gracie is survived by her children, Christopher and Kasey; her stepdaughter, Mary; her step-grandchildren, Jasmine and Kristen; her brothers, Dean, Sammy, and Lewis; many beloved nieces and nephews; and countless friends, coworkers, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by her kindness, humor, strength, and compassion.

She was predeceased by her parents, Samuel and Lillian; her sisters, Robin and Maria ; her brother, Joey; and the love of her life, David L. Harshbarger.

Gracie’s loss is deeply felt by all who knew her, but her legacy lives on in the lives she touched. She showed others that it was okay to be heard, that kindness and selflessness still exist, and that strength and compassion can walk hand in hand. She proved that women can be caregivers, protectors, providers, and leaders all at once.

May her laughter, strength, and light continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Funeral services will be held at Dakin Funeral Home in New Berlin, New York, June 28th at 11 am officiated by Beatrice Georgolis. A celebration of Gracie’s life will follow at Norton Park, 359 Bell Road, New Berlin, New York.