Obituary for Grace Chism

Grace Ann Chism

October 20, 1936 – April 4, 2020

Grace Ann Chism lived 83 full and vibrant years, a constant joy to be around right up until the end. She passed away on April 4th in her beloved Ponca City under the care of our compassionate local doctors and nurses.

Grace was born on October 20, 1936 to Fred and Hope Hays in “T-Town”: Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was raised in Broken Arrow, along with her brother Harvey, and graduated from Bartlesville High School. She attended Oklahoma State University and was a dyed-in-the-wool cowpoke to the bitter end! While obtaining her teaching degree, she met Brice Chism and thought he was cute. They were married on August 25, 1958.

In 1965, Grace and Brice put down roots in Ponca City when Brice accepted a job at Conoco. Together they raised 3 more “Okies” Christy, Laurie and Curtis. Grace was the kind of stay-at-home mom that always prepared sit-down family dinners and said prayers before bed. She was also an amazing “MiMi” to her grandchildren Robby and Morgan that always knew she was so proud of them and that they were a big priority in her life. Though her children and grandchildren were her proudest accomplishment, to those who knew her best, her most amazing accomplishment was remaining married to Brice for 62 years.

Grace loved her church, First United Methodist Church of Ponca City. She was a Sunday school teacher, and a faithful member of the Good Samaritan Sunday school class. Grace’s spiritual strength sustained her in the journey alongside her son through mental illness and physical disability. She shared this strength with others through her patience, thoughtfulness, and a listening ear. When a friend or PEO sister needed a word of encouragement, she was the first to send a card. Grace always had an excuse to shop (just ask her husband!), such as purchasing a little gift for a loved one on her mind.

Grace treasured the uniqueness of the Ponca City community by supporting the Art Center, the Ponca Playhouse, and the Community Concert Series. She served as a docent at the Marland Mansion for many years. She will be remembered for her love of bridge, movie watching and her beautiful gardening. It was an unexpected loss to the Covid-19 virus, far too soon in the hearts of many. Gifts of remembrance can be sent to the Opportunity Center at 2225 N Union St, Ponca City, OK 74601.

Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory.

Source: Trout Funeral Home