The pair moved to Nairobi, Kenya, where their four children were born. They relocated back to the UK in 1950 before emigrating to Australia in 1959 to settle in Caloundra. Her husband died in 1969 and Ms Nelson-Gracie became an active Brownie and Girl Guide leader. She was instrumental in raising funds for the CCSA Hall in Caloundra and became active in the conservation movement as well as other support groups for the elderly. Ms Nelson-Gracie moved to Brisbane in her 80s before moving to Yaroomba about four years ago. It was that move that sparked a fresh involvement in conservation. Judy Nelson-Gracie made oven mitts which were sold to raise money for Save Yaroomba.