Grace Marie Tongue

Grace grew up in Warren and graduated from Warren High School and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and for a time taught high school English and Speech in Punxsutawney. In 1960 she moved to New York City, where she resided for over 30 years until her move to Sarasota, Florida. While in New York, Grace served as Fellowship Officer for the Agricultural Development Council, providing support for Asian doctoral students at U.S. universities. Her work with the Council led to lasting friendships and many return visits to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and other locations in Asia over more than 40 years. She also found time to pursue her lifelong interests in contemporary novels, Hollywood movies, and Broadway musicals, and held an abiding love for the city of Manhattan.

Grace is survived by sisters Roseann Mumbach (John) and Mary Johnson (Gordon), and brothers Frank Germonto (Pat), George Bishop (Andrea), and Perry Michael Bishop (Debbi), as well as her devoted nephews and nieces, including Sue Johnson and Rizza Germonto, and a great number of cherished friends, including Dr. Sherry Shamp of Sarasota.

A Memorial Celebration of Life open house will be held on Saturday, February 4 from 2-5 p.m. at Plaza de Flores community room, 4202 Central Sarasota Parkway, Sarasota FL. In accordance with her wishes, she will be interred in Trinity Church Mausoleum in New York City.

Memorial contributions may be made in Grace’s honor to Boy’s Town, Tidewell Hospice, or an organization of your choice in support of the Arts.