Grace Hockett, 89, Remembered for Fierce Advocacy and Love of Family

Memorial service set for longtime Overland Park resident and devoted church member

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Grace Ann Watson Hockett, a longtime resident of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 89. A memorial service is scheduled for February 28, 2026, at Hesper Friends Church in Eudora, Kansas. Grace was known for her fierce advocacy for her daughters, her love of Jesus, and her passion for genealogy and travel.

Why it matters

Grace's story highlights the importance of family, community, and faith in shaping one's life. As a devoted mother and church member, she left a lasting impact on those around her, inspiring her daughters and grandchildren to carry on her legacy of love and service.

The details

Born in 1936 near Manchester, Oklahoma, Grace grew up on a homestead in Montana before moving to Kansas, where she met her husband, Travis Hockett. The couple settled in Lenexa and later Overland Park, raising two daughters, Nedra and Karla. Grace worked as a secretary in the banking industry, retiring at the age of 80. She was known for her fierce advocacy for her daughters, including standing up to teachers and insurance companies to ensure their well-being. Grace was also an active member of her church, helping with Sunday School, Bible School, and potluck dinners, and was passionate about genealogy and travel.

  • Grace Hockett passed away on January 26, 2026.
  • A memorial service for Grace Hockett is set for 12 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Hesper Friends Church in Eudora, Kansas.

The players

Grace Ann Watson Hockett

A longtime resident of Overland Park, Kansas, who passed away at the age of 89. She was known for her fierce advocacy for her daughters, her love of Jesus, and her passion for genealogy and travel.

Nedra Hockett Salisbury

One of Grace's two daughters, who lives in Overland Park, Kansas.

Karla Hockett Grisham

One of Grace's two daughters, who lives in Newton, Kansas.

Nicholas Grisham

Grace's grandson, who lives in Belaire, Kansas.

Emily Masek

Grace's granddaughter, who lives in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

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What they’re saying

“Karla is not sure what was said, but the teacher never bothered her again.”

— Karla (The Superior Express)

“Emily remembers tea parties with grandma using an antique children's tea set and pink sugar.”

— Emily (The Superior Express)

“Nick had so much fun camping, he declared to Grace repeatedly on the way home once that he 'Wanted to stay camping!'”

— Nicholas (The Superior Express)

The takeaway

Grace Hockett's life story serves as a testament to the power of family, faith, and community. Her unwavering love and advocacy for her daughters, her active involvement in her church, and her passion for preserving her family's history have left a lasting impact on those who knew her, inspiring them to carry on her legacy of compassion and service.