Brizeida "Bri" Gracia

Brizeida “Bri” Gracia, age 31, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center as the result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Bri is now with her mom who preceded her. Born in Manhattan, New York on September 8, 1984, Brizeida was the daughter of Jose Espinal and the late Jehovalina Jesus Vasquez. Raised and educated in Manhattan, she was a graduate of Louis D. Brandeis High School and during her late childhood, Bri dedicated herself to helping to raise her siblings. While residing in Utica, Bri was employed by the Total Quality Cleaning Service, APAC, and various local venues where she worked as a bartender dispersing spirits. Bri was an amazing person. She overcame life’s adversities with hope and good karma. A loving soul, she always had a smile on her face. Her door was always open and her heart knew no boundaries - she touched everyone’s heart. Supportive and generous, she was always there for her family. As a mother, she would go “to the moon and back” for the safety and wellbeing of her children. She looked forward to celebrating the holidays with family and friends. Blessed with beautiful vocals, Bri lifted her voice in song, belting out Rhythm & Blues tunes and Gospel music. She was dedicated to training her voice in pitch and range. Endowed with a strong sense of rhythm and light on her feet, she was also a good dancer. Bri had the gift of great genetics and always looked so young. One of her special achievements was traveling across the entire country, documenting each state on Facebook. She was so proud of her journey. Bri was of the Catholic faith and will be remembered as one who wanted to be graced by the Lord. Bri is survived by her children, Randy/age 12, Johnathan/age 6, and Jesada/age 5; her father, Jose, and his love Marta; her maternal grandmother, Magnolia Vasques; and her siblings, Chito, Brilnida, George, Mayra, Kesia, Crystal, Jose, Dominique, Magnolia, and Andres. She will also remain in the hearts of her aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; her godmother Jeannie; and a multitude of good and loyal friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Tito. In keeping with her family’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Bri’s loved ones will celebrate and commemorate her life at a private gathering at their convenience.

Brizeida "Bri" Gracia

September 8, 1984 - December 17, 2015