Grace Helen

Bales

Grace Helen Wright Bales, age 79, of Decatur, TN, went to her heavenly home on November 9, 2026. She was born on July 2, 1947, in Cleveland, TN, to the late James Cleveland Wright and Charlotte Ina Rose Wright.

Grace enjoyed watching her favorite television programs, including wrestling and preaching sermons. She loved going on walks and was a very patriotic woman. Above all, she loved the Lord and enjoyed attending church, where she was a faithful member of The Gathering in Ten Mile.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Ina Wright; her brother, JC Wright; her sister, Dora Jean Cody; her granddaughter, Bridget Duttenhoffer; and her spouse, Arthur Lloyd Bales.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, Melissa Duttenhoffer, David Bales (Frawlene), and Charity Meeks (Shawn); grandchildren, Sierra Kubiak, Emily Bales, Jennifer Ricker, Aaron Bales, LaShawnda Meeks, Nathan Bales, Brandon Duttenhoffer, Connor Bales, and Rebecca Meeks; great-grandchildren, Haylee Duttenhoffer, Noah Bales, Jameson Harvey, and Barry Ricker; her sister, Gladys Crowder (Bill); along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She also leaves behind her dear friend since high school, Norma Vaughn.

Affectionately known to most as "Mamaw," Grace had a heart of gold and was a loving mother and grandmother. She truly never met a stranger and had a special way of making everyone feel welcome. Her love, kindness, and the memories she created with those around her will forever be treasured by her family and all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Chapel of Companion Funeral and Cremation Service of Athens, TN. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 5:00 PM, officiated by Lynn King.

A burial service will take place on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Meigs Memorial Gardens.