AMI was sad to learn of the death of Grazia Honegger Fresco (91) earlier this week. Grazia was a specialist on the early years of human development, and one of the last living students of Maria Montessori.

Grazia was not only a much valued expert, she was also a prolific writer and publisher. Her magazine “quaderno Montessori” (started in 1984) benefitted from her historical knowledge and beautifully organised archives, and featured many treasures. “Maria Montessori, una storia attuale. La vita, il pensiero, le testimonianze”, Grazia’s biography of Maria Montessori, ranks as the best one available, though sadly only in Italian. She was a much sought-after speaker and fulfilled many important Montessori roles in her native Italy. In 2008 she received an award from UNICEF Italia, “Dalla Parte dei Bambini”.

After the years in which she trained many students, Grazia remained a treasure trove and fount of wisdom for anyone who wished to consult her. She was open, shared generously and continued to be involved and active until her last days. On 31 August two Italian documentaries were launched celebrating the 150th birthday of Maria Montessori. Grazia featured in both, adding great depth in her contributions. The Montessori community is so grateful to have benefitted from her wealth of knowledge.