Thirty years ago, I was graced to meet Taras Gracey when we were both young lawyers finding our way in Chicago. We've shared life's joys and sorrows ever since; Jimmy’s arrival 20 years ago was one of those joyful blessings. Preya and I have vivid memories of Jimmy as a toddler, guiding our oldest son (a year younger). Even at that early age, Jimmy was a natural big brother -- curious, joyful, supportive, and gentle, and always eager for action and competition. It was a true blessing to watch Jimmy grow and lead his siblings with the grace of a Gracey. He was a soul that possessed two gifts seldom found together—a spirit that relished competition combined with a heart of gold that enlarged the hearts of everyone he touched. He embodied what the Graceys have been for us -- a source of God's grace. Jimmy's memory and example will be a blessing for all who knew him, and his prayers from Heaven will be a solace for all of us left to carry the cross of his absence … until we all meet again in joy on the last day.
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Dr. Gracey & Family: We are so deeply sorry for the loss of your precious son, Jimmy. The imprint he has left on our community is a testament to the incredible person he was — as a son, brother and friend.
Our hearts are broken for you, and we are holding you in our prayers constantly. You have cared for and done so much for our family and so many others in Elmhurst. We hope you feel that same love surrounding you now.
We will always carry Jimmy’s memory in our hearts and are here for you in any way you need.
Sending you so much love,
The Kohlhagens (Lyla, Ruby & Ivy)
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I was [very distraught and heartbroken as a mother of 5 sons and 13 grandsons ] when I heard the news of James's passing.
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Dr. G, Family and friends...please accept our deepest condolences for your loss. Jimmy will live on forever in all the hearts of those he came across. Just remember... every time a hockey puck dings off the post... it's just Jimmy saying Hello!
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Dear Gracey family, I am praying for strength for your family as you endure this devastating loss. I hope that all your wonderful memories of Jimmy will sustain you. Jimmy was a kind, shining light in the world and he will be that for heaven.
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To the Gracey Family - from all the Carlsons, we are so sorry about all of this. Breaks our heart. We loved seeing Jimmy at the rink cheering on the Wolfpack hockey team and his younger brother Tommy. And the words Tommy posted made us stop in our tracks. I know all of us in our beloved Ignatius community are gearing up to help however we can.
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Dr. Gracey and Family,
We are deeply sadden by the loss of James, and we're surrounding you with many prayers during this tragic time. We ask that God embraces your family and cover you during this time of deep sorrow. James smile seemed to light up every room, and his spirit made such a impact on so many lives. May his memory live on forever.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted". - Matthews 5:4
- The Brumell Family
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We love hearing about the stories of Jimmy. What an incredible young man, the type of son that all parents hope their sons turn out to be. It can be tough to share Jesus in this world today that we live in, and sounds like Jimmy was a witness to so many. Incredible. Our daughter is a freshman at Ignatius, and I was so happy to hear so many students attended the mass even though many of them did not know Jimmy, but they wanted to support his brother. We are praying for you.
Scott, Heather, Monet, and Sawyer Simpson
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Taras, Therese - Debbie, Giselle and I are at a loss for words to even try to comfort you and your family right now. Jimmy's 20 years were not nearly enough, but we know how fully you lived those years you did have with him. Know from the worldwide outpouring that he was widely loved, by so many, and despite being taken from you much too soon, his life had an outsized impact on so many. You are and will remain in our thoughts and prayers, for peace and some manner of understanding through this most difficult time.
Gary, Debbie and Giselle
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Dr. Gracey,
We are sending you endless love and prayers. I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your precious boy Jimmy. The twins ask about you everyday and keep saying “we love Dr Gracey so much”. You have done so much for so many children of Elmhurst and beyond, it is our turn to hold you and your family tight with all the love and support that we can.
And He will raise you up on eagles wings, and hold you in the palm of His hand.
My deepest sympathies,
Jessica, Blake, Sofia and Sebastian Raun
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Dr. Gracey,
You and your family are in our prayers. Jimmy left an incredible legacy and will be remembered for all the lives he impacted. The world is a better place because of him. God knew he needed him by his side.
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Dear Dr Gracey,
My heart goes out to you and your beautiful family during this unimaginable time. I never met Jimmy, but it seems he was so special, like you, his momma. I truly believe those long arms are working overtime already in heaven. Praying for God's peace in all of your hearts.
Love,
Melinda Adams
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Dear Taras, Therese & family:
Our most sincere and heartfelt condolences for this unimaginable loss. It is apparent that Jimmy was well liked and well respected, and that his 20 years were well lived. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Sharma family (Mani, Alison, Neela & Samir)
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May God wrap His arms around your family during this unimaginable loss.
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Meeting Jimmy on the boat in Geneva was something truly special. I keep coming back to that moment and thinking… I hope any of my sons grow up to be even a part of the young man Jimmy was. He was so polite, respectful, and genuinely engaged—happy to talk about anything and everything. He wasn’t just sitting there on his phone; he was present, thoughtful, and kind.
Hearing about all the good he was doing for God only makes it clearer what a remarkable soul he was. I truly believe he’s in heaven now, watching over those he loves and continuing his purpose in a bigger way.
Please know that we love you, and we’re here for you—whatever you need, whenever you need it.
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Condolences from the hockey / Blues community.
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We have been lifting your family up in prayer and know that Jimmy’s light will continue to shine ❤️🙏🏻
Lauren and Scott Sadlon (Alexandria VA)
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We have been praying for your family every day, and will continue to ask God to send you strength and love. And while we never knew Jimmy, we know that his light and story will continue to impact many other lives like he has ours for years to come 🩵 - The Eubanks Family (Alexandria, VA)
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