Grace Valerie Floyd

Schenectady - Grace Valerie Floyd, 94, entered into her Heavenly home on Sunday, March 13, 2016 with her loving family by her side. Born in Troy, NY, Grace was the daughter of the late Henry and Edith Watson and was the devoted wife to Miller Floyd. They were married for 63 years.

Grace also known as "Nana" to many, was a faithful servant of Mt. Olivet Missionary Baptist Church where she served as a Deaconess and Pastor's Aide. She was presented the Pioneering Women achievement award. She also received a community achievement award from Brothers of St. Paul and Sisters of Virtue

Grace worked for the Schenectady Public school system for a number of years where she found her passion for children. She went on to working at the Schenectady Children's Shelter where she cared for neglected children and stood in the gap as a Mother figure for each child she came in contact with. Grace and her beloved Husband went on to opening a successful business called M.G.F's Delicatessen for several years where she was known for her delicious 50 cent ham and cheese sandwiches. She went back to her passion for children and opened a daycare in her home where she cared for children and supported many families. She was known to provide child care for free when families were financially strained. She also provided foster care for several children which ultimately lead to an adoption of one of the children, when she was 75 years old. Grace was recognized and given a certificate of appreciation from the from the Department of Social Services Foster Care Until for her devotion and willingness to care for children.

In addition to her parents, Grace was predeceased by her brother: James Watson; sisters: Lillian Watson Jones and Delores Watson Bloodworth; son: Gary Evans; and step daughter: Beverly Floyd.

Grace will be forever missed by her son: Joseph Gordon; daughters: Tamara Mont, Barbara Floyd Parker, Kim Floyd, and Millicent Floyd Stevens; adopted daughter: Loris Grace Floyd; step son: Milton Floyd; many grand, great grand, great great grand children; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at the Mt. Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, 1068 Park Avenue, Schenectady, NY, 12308 on Monday March 21, 2016 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with a Mass to follow at 11:00 am. The burial will take place after Mass at Vale Cemetery, 907 State Street, Schenectady, NY, 12307.

In addition to flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Grace's name towards the Kidney Foundation.