Grayce Blanding

Mystic - Grayce Senkus Blanding passed away Sunday, February 27, after a terminal struggle with pneumonia.

Grayce was born in Cheshire on Dec. 1, 1914. She later attended the University of Michigan School of Art and Design, where she met her future husband, John Edward Blanding, then a graduate student in Michigan's School of Naval Architecture. Having lived in various parts of the country, from Wilton, Conn., to Berkeley, Calif., the Blanding's settled in Old Lyme in the 1950's.

Grayce was active in the Old Lyme Congregational Church and, after her move to Mystic in 1980, in the Mystic Congregational Church. After an early career with Vogue in NYC, Grayce's passion for portraiture and landscapes in both pastels and watercolors continued throughout her lifetime.

She is survived by her daughter, Kit Werner, of Mystic, and her grandsons, Elliot William Werner and Reed Blanding Werner.

Her family will gather for a private service. There are no visiting hours.

Grayce was a lifelong advocate of education. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Connecticut P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education, a philanthropy providing grants to Connecticut's women for completion of their education: CT P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education, c/o Mrs. Janet D. Litterer, P.E.O. CT St. Treas., 211 Hemlock Hills North, Fairfield, CT 06824.

The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic is assisting the family. To send an online condolence to the family, please visit www.dinotofuneral.com.