Grace Francis London

Grace Francis (DeMeis) London, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away surrounded by love on October 12, 2024. Born in 1933, in Atlantic City, NJ, she was the cherished daughter of Frank DeMeis and Sarah (Magro) DeMeis. Grace was the proud sister of three siblings: Esther Johnson (deceased), Rosemarie Caputo, and Dorothy DeMeis. She also shared a unique and very special bond with her bonus family additions of Charlotte Gray and Paul Gray. Grace was predeceased by her devoted husband of over 60 years, Marvin Frank London.

Grace is survived by her five children: Linda Colon and husband Rocky, Stephen London and wife Julie, Ronald London, Mark London, and Marie London and husband Roland. She was a loving grandmother to two granddaughters, Jasminda Risko and her three sons, Evan, Conner, and Ryan Risko, as well as Gabrielle Clark, her husband, and their four children: Kayley Colon, Natalie, Colton, and Ethan Clark.

A proud graduate of Atlantic City High, Grace furthered her education at Secretarial School. During the Korean War, she worked as a secretary in Washington, DC. After the war, she settled in Claymont, DE, where she built a loving family. Grace was an active member of her community, participating in the Bridge Club and fostering children through Catholic Social Services. She dedicated her time volunteering with youth at the Brown House in Claymont and other programs.

Grace enjoyed a successful career in retail at Strawbridge’s and Clothier, later working part-time at Claymont Elementary School as a beloved lunch lady.

Traveling and spending quality time with family and friends brought her immense joy. Grace had a special love for animals, especially her many pets. She was known for her legendary Christmas Eve Open House parties, where her famous meatballs were a highlight. In her later years, she embraced her adventurous spirit as a “Motorcycle Momma,” enjoying rides throughout New Castle County with her son Mark.

Grace’s life was a testament to love and kindness, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her radiant spirit will be profoundly missed.