With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we share the news of the passing of our beloved board president, Stacey Smith.  Stacey was a devoted wife, a loving mom, a caring sister, a cherished daughter, and a dear friend to many.  Her impact reached several nations, touching lives within her immediate circle and the hearts of those worldwide.  

Stacey's commitment to her family, friends, and community was unparalleled.  She poured her heart and soul into everything she did, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched.  As we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, we also celebrate the legacy she leaves behind.    

One of Stacey's greatest passions was Grace House India, a cause that was close to her heart.  Stacey dedicated herself to empowering young girls in India, ensuring they receive a good education, love, and training to build a hopeful future.  Through her efforts, Stacey has laid the foundation for the girls of Grace House to learn, grow, and pursue a life centered around the teachings of Jesus.  Additionally, she co-owned GameGuard with her loving husband, Craig Smith, for over twenty years.  Her incredible, lasting impact resonates far beyond the walls of GameGuard.   

In every circumstance, Stacey maintained a tenacious approach to overcoming the challenge of succeeding in the apparel industry through consistent adaptability while keeping unwavering faith.  With every opportunity at GameGuard, Stacey perceived and crafted a more excellent vision to glorify God beyond reliance on materialistic crutches.  

In the wake of Stacey's passing, we find strength in the knowledge that her vision and mission will continue through the ongoing work of Grace House India and GameGuard.  We will persist in fulfilling the dreams and aspirations that Stacey held for the people she most deeply cared about.   

Reflecting on 2023 at Grace House India and its astounding accomplishments, we know these are the moments and goals the Lord instilled in Stacey's heart eight years ago.  

The Lord has truly blown us away during 2023. Five confident and driven girls have graduated from Grace House, stepping boldly into their faith and dreams.  One girl is now at Youth With A Mission (YWAM), three are thriving in nursing school, and another is venturing into the computer business world.  They are living out the prayers that our supporters and dedicated team have planted and sewn.  

Grace House India hosted three incredible volunteer trips this year, where we had the privilege to pray, be friends, worship, work, support, and share the unconditional love of Jesus with the girls of Grace House India.  We're so grateful for the bonds formed and the love shared!  

Thanks to your support, we revamped the Grace House campus kitchen with new dining tables and chairs, a shiny refrigerator, a refreshed ceiling, installed cabinets, and upgraded to sturdy steel doors.  These improvements enhance the space where we gather, cook, and share moments of joy.  

Construction has begun on the Grace House campus with a new home economics room where our girls can practice essential life skills.  From sewing and baking to a beauty station for hair and mehndi, this space will be a hub for learning and growth.  We can't wait to see the skills and creativity that will blossom here!  

Over the summer, Grace House hosted a children's Vacation Bible School for our girls.  They had a blast singing, worshipping, learning new instruments, and playing games.  It was indeed a week of revival and praising the Lord.   

As we walk through 2024, we find inspiration in a verse that echoes the essence of our mission: "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it," Proverbs 22:6. With this unwavering faith and your steadfast support, we strive to continue creating a brighter future for the girls at Grace House India.  

Our impactful work is made possible by individuals like you who generously contribute to our mission.  We are sincerely grateful for your commitment and look forward to sharing the continued miracles unfolding in the lives of our precious girls.  

As supporters of Stacey and the causes she championed, we invite you to join us in honoring her memory.  Your continued support will ensure that Stacey's legacy lives on through the impactful initiatives she has created.    

We understand this is a challenging time for all of us, and we appreciate your compassion and support.  Stacey's wishes were to forgo a formal memorial ceremony and instead spend time celebrating all God has done in her life.  Thank you for being a part of Stacey's journey and contributing to her lasting impact on the world. 

If you would like to join us in honoring Stacey's memory, we ask that any donations go to Grace House India in her honor.