Capt. Roberta J. Grace, USN, Ret. - Obituary

oberta “Bobbie” Jane Grace, 85, of Annapolis, Maryland, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, in the presence of family and friends. Born on September 17, 1941 in Baltimore, Maryland, Bobbie was the cherished daughter of Robert and Madeline Grace. Bobbie graduated from Saint Agnes Hospital School of Nursing in Baltimore and shortly thereafter joined the United States Navy Nurse Corps. Following basic training, she began her Navy career in 1964 as an Ensign at the Naval Hospital in Saint Albans, New York. She went on to serve nine tours of duty throughout the United States and one tour aboard the Naval Hospital Ship USS Repose off the coast of Vietnam. Of all her assignments, she treasured her time aboard the USS Repose as one of the most meaningful experiences of her life. Throughout her distinguished career, Bobbie earned the respect and admiration of those who served alongside her. She was known as an exceptionally competent and compassionate nurse, a dedicated Naval Officer, and an inspiring leader in the Nurse Corps. She rose to the rank of Captain in 1987 and completed two additional assignments, the last at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, before retiring in June 1991. Bobbie's life was defined by service. Whether caring for wounded service members, supporting her church and community, helping family and friends, or ministering to patients with extraordinary compassion, she quietly devoted herself to others. She possessed a servant's heart, giving generously of her time and talents. Her kindness was thoughtful and intentional, and every gift she gave reflected how deeply she knew and cared for the people in her life. A lifelong learner, Bobbie was an avid reader with an extraordinary personal library. Her shelves held everything from classic literature and theology to history, biographies, and military accounts. Rarely was a book left untouched—its pages filled with highlighted passages, folded corners, and handwritten notes that reflected her thoughtful mind, intellectual curiosity, and deep faith. Bobbie was a devout Christian and active member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Annapolis. She faithfully served in many areas of the church, and because of her lifelong love of music, became a valued member of the choir for many years. She found great joy in worship, treasured the music of the church, and formed lasting friendships within her church family. She was also an accomplished photographer and rarely arrived anywhere without a camera in hand, eager to preserve the moments that mattered. Her photographs captured family celebrations, Navy friendships, vacations, and everyday memories, many of which continue to adorn the homes of those she loved. Following retirement, Bobbie developed a special affection for Virginia's Northern Neck, where her extended family gathered throughout the year. Cracking crabs on the Fourth of July became one of her favorite traditions, and she delighted in clearing the kitchen so she could prepare her famous crab imperial. Every Thanksgiving, family members looked forward to receiving a year's supply of her homemade chutney, and she never arrived without Navy memorabilia to share. Her visits were eagerly anticipated, and everyone smiled when "the Captain" pulled into the driveway. Bobbie is survived by her cousins, Donna Owen of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Rob Grace of Kilmarnock, Virginia, and Paul Pugh of Marlton, New Jersey, as well as many beloved family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and generosity. Roberta "Bobbie" Grace lived with unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a deep commitment to serving others. Her legacy of service, compassion, faith, and love will be remembered by all who knew her. A memorial service celebrating Bobbie's life will take place on Saturday, August 22 at 11 AM at Calvary United Methodist Church, 301 Rowe Blvd, Annapolis, MD 21401. In lieu of flowers, consider planting a tree or making a memorial donation in Bobbie’s name to your local hospice organization. Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.