Grace Toki Tamura
Grace Toki Tamura was born in Morro Bay on August 4, 1928, to Kichizi and Yaye (Kiyomura) Hayashida, both originally from the Kumamoto-ken region of southeastern Japan. Grace was the sixth of seven siblings: George, Benjamin, Louie, Henry, Jane, and youngest sister, Mary.
In 1941, Grace and her family faced the difficult transition to the Tulare Assembly Center, followed by four years at the internment camp in Gila, Arizona. During this time, her brothers Louie and Henry left the camp to enlist in the Army and served in the renowned 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Grace spent her freshman and sophomore years at Gila High School.
After the family was released from the camp, they moved to Santa Barbara, where Grace attended Santa Barbara High School and graduated in 1947. In her senior year, although her family relocated north to Monterey, Grace made the courageous decision to stay in Santa Barbara to finish her education. She lived with the Gilchrist Family, caring for their children while the parents ran a jewelry store.
While at camp, Grace met Nobuo (Nob) Tamura at one of the dances. Their paths crossed again in Santa Barbara, and they eventually married at the Buddhist Church. Together, they raised their children—Jeff, Chris, and Lynda—and continued to call Santa Barbara home. Grace dedicated herself to the Buddhist Church of Santa Barbara, volunteering and participating in many programs, including the Obon festivals.
Grace was also a wonderful cook, and she delighted in hosting all family holiday dinners. After her children grew up, she worked for many years at the school district, assisting in the cafeteria, where her kindness and hard work shone through.
Her family grew as Jeff married Laurie, and they had two sons, Jason and Matthew. Grandson Matthew married Abby, and Grace was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ty and Violet. Chris continues to live in Santa Barbara, while Lynda resides in San Diego. Grace’s husband Nob passed away in August 2007.
Grace’s life was a beautiful testament to resilience, generosity, and love for her family and community. Her strength and kindness left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy continues to inspire us every day. Now, she can take those long drives, go shopping, and spend time with everyone she missed. Mom, we love and miss you a trillion times over.
We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Serenity House. Their kind, loving, and compassionate care brought a smile to our mother’s face every day, and their dedication to all their patients is truly exemplary. We are forever thankful for the warmth and comfort they provided to Grace.
In honor of Grace Tamura’s memory, please consider making a donation to Serenity House at 930 Miramonte Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 92109. Your generosity will help continue the wonderful care that meant so much to our family.
