Sophie A. Gradia

Sophie Gradia, a beloved resident of West Palm Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on April 13, 1937, in Danbury, Connecticut, Sophie was a woman of deep faith and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Sophie began her journey in cosmetology at the tender age of 19, showcasing her talent and passion for beauty. Just a year later, she married the love of her life, Basil Gradia, and together they built a life filled with love and laughter. They were partners not only in life but also in business, co-owning B & S Auto Parts, B & S Guns, and the charming Darlin Dress Shop for 26 years. Sophie also found joy in baking at the school cafeteria when her children were young, always putting her family first. She was the proud matriarch of a large family, blessed with five daughters, eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Her family was her greatest pride, and her legacy lives on through them. A devout Christian, Sophie was a member of St. Rita's Catholic Church, where she found strength and solace in her faith. Her kindness, sense of humor, and wisdom left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was often heard saying, "It is what it is," "Is there a coupon for that?" and reminding everyone that "God doesn't give you more than you can handle." She is preceded in death by her husband Basil, her sisters Rose Murad, Sadie Bailey, Anna Knapp and her brothers Mitchell Murad and Elias Murad. She is survived by her sister Jeanette Bowman and brother Peter Murad and her daughters Catherine Goodkin, Lisa Cavanaugh, Cynthia Suarez, Marianne Fann and Melissa Yurick and their spouses David Suarez and Christopher Yurick. Also her many grandchildren William, Meagan, Gregory,Jonathan, Anthony, Marissa, Brandon and Samantha and her many great grandchildren and great great grandchild. Sophie will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her funeral service will be held on Friday, June 20th, from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at Palms West Funeral Home, located at 110 Business Park Way, Royal Palm Beach. A mass will follow at 11 am at St. Rita's Catholic Church in Wellington. As we gather to celebrate Sophie's remarkable life, we hold onto the cherished memories and the love she shared with us all. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the grace of God.