Dorrace Laurence Balfe

January 8, 1932 - July 24, 2021

Dorrace Laurence Balfe “Nana” 89, passed away July 24, 2021 from North Port, FL. She was born to Dr. Eanes Garrabrant and Lucile Garrabrant on January 8, 1932 in Queens, NY. Married to Edgar Balfe, she was widowed in 1977. They shared three children Nancy, John and Debra. Dorrace grew up in NY and raised her children in Long Island, NY but relocated to Florida to be with her lifetime companion and bestfriend George Radak. They enjoyed many of years together laughing and living their best lives. Dorrace worked at Holy Family Catholic Church in Miami, FL and went back to school to earn a college degree at Miami-Dade Community College at the age of 48. Dorrace went on to work for the City of North Port and Sarasota County Parks and Recreation department. She finally retired at the age of 76. Dorrace was the family matriarch and the pillar of strength for her family. She loved good food and a good laugh with friends and family. She will be deeply missed by her family and fondly remembered for her strength, perseverance, stories of the past, how she could light up a room with her infectious smile, crocheting projects, Christmas cookies and prayers for others. Dorrace is survived by her two daughters; Debra Gronsky and Son in law Laco. Also a host of Grandchildren including Tara Batori (Tony) and her three Great-Grandchildren Justin, Nathen and Chloe of North Port. She is predeceased by her parents Eanes and Lucile Garrabrant, husband Edgar, son John and bestfriend George Radak.