Grace Marie Roberts

MUNCIE - Grace Marie Roberts, born September 25, 1936, daughter of Kathryn and Henry Romers, Muncie Indiana, and sister of Mary Durham (all of whom pre-deceased Grace), passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in her home at Cedar Creek of Muncie. Grace is survived by her daughter, Michelle Whetsel, daughter-in-law Beverly Whetsel, grandson Zachary Whetsel, and niece Debra Durham.
Grace was a graduate of Burris High School, which she considered a big honor. After high school, she graduated from Indiana University's Business School (renamed Kelly School of Business). Grace considered that one of her biggest accomplishments, since there were only a few women accepted into that program during her attendance.
After college, she married Gail Whetsel (who also pre-deceased her) and worked as an Executive Assistant for 3M Corporation in Hartford City, Indiana. During those years, Grace obtained a master's degree with a teaching emphasis from Ball State University. After sixteen years, she and Gail divorced. As a now single parent, she decided to teach Freshman English at Blackford County High School, in Hartford City.
In 1974, she married Donald Roberts (who pre-deceased her), and moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she lived and worked for almost 40 years. Her work included accountant/bookkeeper for The Society of Professional Journalist's, William Levine's, and the Spine Institute of Chicago.
In 1993, they divorced. After the divorce, Grace described herself as unencumbered. She enjoyed her independence and freedom to do what she wanted. She also reconnected with her sister, who also lived in Chicago.
After retiring at age 70, Grace moved to be closer to her daughter and family. Her adventures took her to Raleigh North, Carolina, Carmel, Indiana, Valparaiso, Indiana, and Richmond Texas. During those years, she enjoyed being part of her grandson growing up and sharing in her family's adventures. Trips to the ocean, one of her favorite places, and road trips to state parks, and wildlife spots were on the agenda just about every year. She and Zachary would sit in the back seat of the car and be like two little kids. Laughs were had by all. Even shortly before she passed away, she asked, "where are we going next?"
Although she had happy memories of the trips and family adventures, one of her most beloved memories was made in Raliegh. During this period Zachary would visit her after school, and they would have cookies together and visit. She spoke of those days often and always with a huge smile as she recalled the stories he shared with her.
When Michelle retired in 2024, Grace and family moved back to Muncie, Indiana. And while Grace enjoyed all the places she lived, Chicago stole her heart. She often spoke of the bustle of the city and the fun of just taking the trains and buses to see the sights. She often dreamed of moving back to the city, but the love for her family and the comfort of being near was a stronger pull for her.
She continued to enjoy each day even after she was less able to travel long distances, or via airplane. Whether it was a day at the zoo, going to see a new town, eating at a new restaurant, going to the local movie theater, watching a British mystery, or simply playing mahjong on her tablet at home. Grace would chat with her daughter almost daily and always share her happenings with a fun storytelling twist. Or if the conversation was via text, she would include a fun sticker emoji! Her slogan was "enjoy life while you can and before it's too late".
Grace was also kind to others. She almost always offered a smile to others, making them feel special, no matter what her own mood might be. Although she felt she was not good at conversation, she always took the time to ask others about their lives and their families. Many considered her an extended family member and often shared their stories with her.
She was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew her.
Grace's memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday February 1, 2026, at The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel with Pastor Dwayne Loveless officiating.
Family and friends may call at The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com