Grace A. Quates

Grace Arleen Quates, of Apopka, Florida, joined our Lord in Heaven on June 30, 2026. She was born on December 15,1937 in San Antonio, Texas, the youngest child of five to Leo and Winnie Stapleton. She was predeceased by her parents, brothers Roy, Bob and Leo, her sister Helen, and her son James.

On May 12, 1956, Grace married her beloved husband Henry Eddie Quates, Jr., Airman 1st Class. Eddie later became a Baptist minister and chaplain in the Air Force. For 70 years they walked hand-in-hand in ministry, serving churches and chapels around the world. As a devoted pastor’s wife, she was a pillar of strength, grace, and hospitality, offering an ear to listen and a heart to pray for anyone in need, touching the lives of everyone she met.

During her lifetime the family was blessed with four beautiful children: Janis, Judy, James and Joan, 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. As a talented and gifted musician, Grace faithfully served as a pianist in many churches. Her passion for worship through music filled the sanctuary every time she played. Her practiced, talented hands at the keys brought peace, comfort, and joy to countless congregations during weddings, and special events. Whether she was leading hymns or simply playing in her own home, her life was a beautiful melody of faith. Grace was known for her playful spirit and the kind of humor that filled family gatherings with laughter, joy, and wonderful memories at every stage of her life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 8, 2026, at First Baptist Church Dunnellon, Florida.

We welcome you to provide your condolences, thoughts, and memories on our Tribute Wall.

Thank you for your shared love of Grace.