SOUTH PARIS — Grace Ethel Haynes Hatch, 77, of South Paris, a devoted mother, sister and friend, passed away unexpectedly Sept. 10.

Grace was born in Lewiston, Feb 3, 1933, the daughter of David Carlton and Dr. Alta Carter Haynes. She attended local schools in Auburn and graduated from Edward Little High School in 1951.

She married Arthur Hatch Oct. 10, 1954, and they had three boys. Although Arthur and Grace divorced on Feb. 3, 1989, after more than 34 years of marriage, they remained life-long friends, having dinner together with their son, David at her home every other Sunday. She loved her sons and grandchildren and was loved by them. The highlight of each day was visiting David. Each afternoon, she and David would work on a puzzle together.

In her high school yearbook it states, “ ‘Twas her thinking of others made you think of her, trustworthy, a wise and understanding heart, an A-1 friend.” These are traits that defined her throughout her life. She enjoyed weekly dinners and monthly outings with a group of special friends. Grace was very active in the Grace Fellowship Church, where she played the piano and sometimes the organ. Playing the piano was one of her life-long joys. She enjoyed sharing this passion with her granddaughter, Jennifer. Her love for reading stayed with her for her whole life.

 “Gracie” played clarinet and was in the high school band for three years. She was also in the teen book club, dramatic club, outing club and was in two talent shows. As a teen, she worked one summer at Jordan Pond House in Acadia National Park and as a young woman, she worked at Peck’s Department Store. In her later years, she worked at Ames Department Store for more than 10 years, until her retirement.

She is survived by her sons, John Hatch and his life partner, Julie Hebert, of Oxford and David Hatch of South Paris; her brother, John Haynes and his wife, Beverlyof Oxford; her grandchildren, Leo Hatch of Norway, John Hatch Jr. and his life partner, Becky Dailey, of South Paris and Jennifer Hatch of Norway; one nephew; and three nieces.

She was predeceased by her parents, David Carlton and Dr. Alta Carter Haynes; and her son, James Byron.