In Loving Memory of Gracie Blair Dunbar

 With unimaginable sadness and broken hearts, we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Gracie Blair Dunbar, born March 2, 2012, a deeply loved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend.

Gracie’s life was taken far too soon, leaving a profound emptiness in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. There are no words that can adequately express the heartbreak of losing someone so young, with so much life yet to live, so many memories yet to make, and so much love yet to give.

Gracie had a beautiful and compassionate heart. She was someone who instinctively looked out for others, cared deeply about the people around her, and had a special tenderness for animals. She loved her family fiercely and found happiness in the simple joys of life, including skiing at Sugarbush with her friends, going to concerts with her mom and sister and listening to the music of Zach Bryan. Her kindness, thoughtfulness, and love for others were among the many gifts she shared with the world.

At just 14 years old, Gracie had already made a lasting difference in the lives of those around her. Her life reminds us that even the shortest lives can leave the deepest impressions, and that the love we give and receive never truly leaves us.

Gracie is predeceased by her grandfather Cedric Dunbar and survived by her loving parents, Sarah Barber and Nate Dunbar; her siblings, Blake Dunbar and Emily Dunbar; her grandparents, David and Gretchen Barber and Helena Dunbar; her aunts and uncles, Blake Barber, Wray Whitticom, Glynne Bassi, and Travis Dunbar; and countless cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

As we struggle to make sense of this devastating and unexpected loss, we hold tightly to the love Gracie brought into our lives. We grieve not only the beautiful girl we have lost, but also the birthdays, milestones, laughter, and ordinary moments we should have had together.

A funeral service honoring Gracie’s life will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at Wesley United Methodist Church 56 South Main Street Waterbury, Vermont 05676. 

Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to gather in love and remembrance, to support one another through this heartbreaking loss, and to celebrate the precious life of a girl who meant so much to so many. May we honor her memory by extending to others the same kindness, compassion, and love that Gracie so naturally gave.