Nina Marie Graciana, 68, of Loves Park died on December 11, 2025. Born July 16, 1957 in Rockford; daughter of Gary Fairbanks and Rosemary Capriola. Nina attended Jefferson High School. Nina met her friend and future husband, Joseph Graciana when she was in elementary school in South Rockford, they were united in marriage of January 31, 1975; they celebrated 50 years of love, commitment and friendship this year. Nina was employed as a bartender at the Verdi Club for 32 years. In her free time, she enjoyed spending time at her camper in Lake Carroll with Joe and her extended family. She was an avid reader of novels and spent quiet time working on puzzles. Her family will miss the delicious soups and award-winning chili that she prepared; she was an incredibly talented cook. Nina also enjoyed playing slots at the Verdi. Above all else, Nina was a loving and devoted wife, dedicated mother and adored Nana to her grandchildren. She always put her family first in everything she did in life, supporting her boys and grandchildren each step of the way throughout life. Her family was truly her world. Survived husband, Joseph; sons, Jason (Jilly) Graciana, Joey (Angela) Graciana, Jimmy Graciana; grandchildren, Zane (Sydney Bridegan) Graciana, Isabella (Axel Koym) Graciana, Paige Motzkus, Max Motzkus, Lex Motzkus, Camden Graciana, Mariah Graciana; Scarlett Graciana, Tatum Graciana; step-mother, Raejean Fairbanks; siblings, Rose Ames, Carla DalSanto, Kelly Fairbanks, Cindi Fairbanks, Amy Horns, Brian Fairbanks; sisters-in-law, Anna Graciana, Ginger Andrukaitis, Laurie (Nate) Webster; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and circle of friends. Preceded in death by mother, Rosemary Capriola; fathers, Gary Fairbanks and Carl Craddock; granddaughter, Olivia Graciana father and mother-in-law, Paul and Stella Graciana; brothers-in-law, Tim Andrukaitis, and Jimmy Graciana. Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 20, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Verdi Club, with a service at 1 p.m.; 782 N. Madison St. Rockford. Immediately following the service food and drinks will be served. Jennifer Thompson, Funeral Celebrant will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Nina's memory to her family. Cremation rites accorded. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family. Share a memory or condolence at
www.graceFH.com
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