Libania P. "Malilli" Grace, 103, of Mattapoisett died Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Tobey Hospital surrounded by her family after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Abel M. Grace, Sr.

Born in New Bedford, daughter of the late Manuel and Luiza (Lopes) Pinto, she moved to Brava, Cape Verde at the age of 5 and resided there for 20 years. Upon her return to the United States she resided in Mattapoisett and met her future husband Abel. They were married on Valentine's Day 1948 and shared 71 years of marriage.

Malilli was currently the oldest living resident of Mattapoisett and was the recipient of the Boston Post Cane certificate from the town. She enjoyed flowers and watching old shows, especially Dallas, and loved to spend time with her family. She and Abel were also founding members of the International Church of the Nazarene in New Bedford.

She is survived by her son, Abel M. Grace, Jr. and his wife Lauren; two grandchildren, Sara and Spencer Grace; her great-grandson, Dexter Bowman; three first cousins, Idilia Lopes, Madalena Mendes, and Maria Paula Lopes; and many other extended family members.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Antonio Pinto, Maria Pinto DaPina, Margaret "GiGi" Pinto Lise, and Clarimundo Pinto.

Visiting hours will be held Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 12-4 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. Interment will be private. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.