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Grace U'ilani Gomes, 72, of Lahaina, Maui, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving 'ohana.
Born on April 18, 1954, in Wailuku, Maui, Grace was a strong and loving woman who devoted her life to her family, faith, culture, and community. She will be remembered for her strength, determination, aloha, infectious laughter, love of music, and service to others.
Grace especially loved gathering with family, listening to and enjoying music, deepening her knowledge of Hawaiian culture, caring for her grandbabies and great-grandbabies, and making memories with her beloved titahs. Her laughter, warmth, and joyful spirit brought happiness to those around her.
Grace is survived by her husband, Gregory; her children, Jaynell, Natalie, Brandon, and Kaleo; her sisters, Yolanda, Tiny, and Evelyn; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony Kekona Sr. and Annie Kekona (Kaaihue); her brothers, Anthony Jr., William, and Adam; her son, Shawn; and her daughter-in-law, Aleah.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Ballard Family Mortuary.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hawaiian Homes Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations, cards, and leis in Grace's memory.
Grace will be deeply missed, but the love, strength, aloha, laughter, and beautiful memories she gave us will remain forever in our hearts.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.-- Proverbs 3:5-6
Her strength carried her through life, her aloha touched countless hearts, and her love for her 'ohana will live on through the generations.