Grace Helen Churchill, 98, of Walworth, passed away peacefully on Dec. 19, 2025. Born on July 20, 1927, in Burlington, to August and Irma (Voelz) Voltz, Grace lived a life marked by resilience, kindness, and service.
Growing up during the Great Depression, Grace developed the strength and work ethic that defined her character. A gifted student, she graduated as valedictorian from Walworth High School at 16, and worked as a bookkeeper for the U.S. Department of the Treasury in Chicago during World War II.
In 1947, Grace married Wayne Clinton Churchill. Their 64-year marriage was built on mutual respect, humor, faith, and dedication to each other and to their community, until Wayne’s passing in 2012.
An accomplished real estate broker and owner of Churchill Real Estate, Grace was admired for her integrity, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients. Beyond work, Grace served on several committees for the Village of Walworth, including the Park Board and as Village Clerk. She was known for her active involvement in the community, her exceptional knowledge of local history, and her sharp memory for the changes that happened in the area over the years.
Grace was a charter member of Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school, served as both a member and officer for the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and used her financial expertise while serving as Treasurer, and as a member of the finance committee.
Grace enjoyed gardening, yardwork, and quiet moments on her treasured screened-in porch. She was a gifted baker and cook whose homemade meals and desserts were an expression of care for all who enjoyed them. Known for her kindness and support to others, Grace will be remembered for her strength, humor, generosity, and love, as well as her optimism and devotion to family.
Grace was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne; their daughter, Julie; her sisters Margaret Priddis and Carol Betthauser; and her brother Eugene Voltz. She is survived by her daughters, Jo (Mike) Pirlott of Waukesha, and Jacqueline Churchill (Scott Schroepfer) of Minneapolis, her son-in-law John Potter of Edina, Minnesota; her grandchildren, Jessie (Chris) Nelson, Angela Pirlott (Lieutenant Colonel Bryan French), Mike W. Pirlott (Sydney Schrider), Emma Potter, and Mikaela Potter (Sam Stevens); and her great-grandchildren, Isabelle, Jack, McKenzie, Andalucia, Theodore, and Allison.
Grace’s family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by Golden Years Assisted Living and Aurora Hospice Services.
A private family service will be held to honor Grace. Memorials are preferred to Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, 420 Read Street, Walworth, WI 53184.
Arrangements were under the direction of Toynton Funeral Home. Please visit www.toyntonfuneralhome.com.