Grace M Amendola

Grace M. Amendola, born on March 8th, 1939, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on March 6, 2026, in West Palm Beach, FL, just two days shy of her 87th birthday. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.

For 36 remarkable years, Grace devoted herself to White Plains High School, contributing her talents and unwavering commitment from its inception in 1960 until her retirement in 1996 as the Senior Administrative Assistant. Her impact on the school community was immeasurable, shaping the futures of countless students and colleagues alike.

Grace's commitment to her education was inspirational; she graduated from White Plains High School in 1958 and earned her Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Elizabeth Seton College in the early 1980s while managing her full-time job and raising her family. Her intellect and desire for knowledge enhanced the vibrant life she led.

Family meant everything to Grace. Survived by her husband, Saverio Amendola, with whom she shared 62 beautiful years, was her steadfast partner. Together, they navigated life's ups and downs, with Grace standing firmly as his rock and advocate.

As a mother, Grace exemplified unconditional love. Her children, Dina A. Criss and Dr. Paula Amendola-Sekinski, have shared that she was everything a mother should be and beyond. Grace was a paragon of selflessness, always putting the needs of her family ahead of her own. Her dedication to ensuring they succeeded in life was palpable; she fought hard for them, made sacrifices, and worked tirelessly, embodying what it meant to be their advocate and support. The love and respect between Grace and her daughters were profound, and her spirit is woven into the very fabric of their lives.

Grace's role as a grandmother was equally cherished. She took great joy in the lives of her grandchildren — Samantha Grey, James J. Criss, Jr., Shelby Sekinski, and Jake Sekinski. They were her world, and she was their biggest supporter, offering insight, advice, and an abundance of love. Her bond with her great-grandson, Cameron J. Grey, particularly stood out. In the past year, he brought her immeasurable joy, and Grace loved him dearly, affectionately calling him her little “chub-chub.”

Her sons-in-law, James and John, whom she embraced like her own sons, filled her heart with additional love. The bond they shared was strong, as both had previously lost their mothers, and Grace was ever present to fill that void, spoiling them with her nurturing spirit and delicious home-cooked meals.

In addition to her immediate family that deeply mourns her absence, Grace leaves behind her dear sisters, Rosalie Renda, Ann (Mary) Popp, and brother Anthony Allegrino, along with her sister-in-law, Deardre Allegrino. She was preceded in death by her sister, Rose Allegrino.

In the shadows of her passing, those who loved Grace have been left heartbroken. They remember her fierce spirit, her ability to love unconditionally, and her unwavering guidance. Grace Amendola was more than just a mother, grandmother, or wife; she was a beacon of strength and kindness whose influence will forever be felt.

Visitation will be held on March 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Palms West Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. in Royal Palm Beach, FL. A funeral service will follow at 1:45 PM the same day.

The indelible mark of Grace's love, compassion, and spirit will resonate through the lives she touched, providing warmth and strength to those she leaves behind. Though she may be gone, her legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of her devoted family.