Grace Elizabeth McFarland, of West Simsbury, passed away at the age of 91. She was the beloved wife of the late Henry McFarland. Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of the late George and Leila Tirrell. Growing up in Hartford, she attended the Hartford public schools including the old Northwest and Weaver High. Married to a Navy man, she traveled extensively throughout the United States. While her husband was stationed in San Diego, CA, she attended San Diego State College, receiving a degree in Social Work. When the family moved back to Connecticut in 1966, she began her career in education. She attended the University of Hartford, graduating with a Sixth Year and Masters in Educational Psychology.

In her professional life, she had been employed by the American Red Cross as both a Professional Case Worker and volunteer. In California, she worked for the State of California Child and Family Services. In the late 60’s and 70’s, when there was a teacher shortage, she worked in the Hartford and Avon School Systems under a TEP. Prior to her retirement in 1991, she was employed as a School Psychologist in the East Windsor School System.

Grace is best remembered for her sense of humor and colorful antidotes. She always made us laugh. As an avid gardener, she cherished all living things. She was devoted to all of her pets, especially her German Shepherd dogs. Grace was a bright, kind and nurturing spirit which will be sorely missed by her family, friends and former colleagues.

Grieving her passing will be her daughter, Carol Mazza and her husband James of Simsbury as well as her grandchildren, James McFarland Mazza and Kathleen Leila Mazza-Curll. She was predeceased by her son, Arthur McFarland and daughter, Linda Arthur.

Funeral service will be celebrated at 11AM on Wednesday, April 5th at the Vincent Funeral Home, 120 Albany Turnpike in Canton. Burial will follow in Simsbury Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Grace’s name may be made to any animal rescue or protection organization. The Vincent Funeral Home of Canton is caring for the arrangements. Please visit Grace’s “Book of Memories” at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online condolences.