Grace DeCandia

Grace De Candia (née Diasparra), 86, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. Born on May 9, 1939, in Corato, Bari, Italy, Grace was the beloved daughter of Vito Diasparra and Antonetta Diasparra (née Gallo). She embodied the warmth, resilience, and spirited nature of her homeland throughout her life. As a young woman, she immigrated with her family to the United States and settled in Tenafly, New Jersey, where she met the love of her life, Vincent De Candia. They were married in 1956 and shared 60 devoted years together until Vincent’s passing in 2016. Together they raised their family in Ridgefield Park and later in Dumont, New Jersey, continuing to create cherished memories surrounded by family and friends. Their marriage was a true partnership rooted in loyalty, faith, and enduring love. Grace is survived by her brothers, Alfonso (Sandra) and Joseph (Norica), and was predeceased by her sister, Rose Manfredonia (née Diasparra) (Antonio). She was the proud and loving mother of Marta Alstete and her husband Jeffrey, and Victor De Candia and his wife Erin. She delighted in her grandchildren, Jessica, Victoria, and Nicholas, and was overjoyed to become a great-grandmother to Brooke and Nora in her final year. Her family was her greatest accomplishment and her deepest pride. A devoted homemaker, Grace made her house a welcoming and vibrant place for all who entered. She expressed her love through her cooking, her celebrations, and her ever-open door. An avid runner, she demonstrated remarkable discipline and determination, traits that defined not only her athletic pursuits but her entire approach to life. Her feisty spirit, sharp wit, and playful humor created countless joyful memories. Grace will be remembered for her resilience, her laughter, her boundless energy, and above all, her fierce devotion to those she loved. The family she nurtured so wholeheartedly carries forward her legacy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 16, at Barrett Leber Funeral Home, 145 Dean Drive, Tenafly, New Jersey, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. A service will take place on Tuesday, February 17, at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial at Brookside Cemetery.