Mary L. Gray

November 28, 1941 - January 31, 2023

Mary L. Gray, age 81, of Athens, TX, passed from this life today at 1:30 A.M. Jan. 31, 2023 to join her beloved Jesus for a new life with Him.

Mary is survived by her husband of 55 years, Jack Gray of Athens, TX, son Chip Gray, wife Tracie and children Rachael, Jack, and Harrison of Ovilla, TX, daughter Cassi Box, husband Dwight, and sons Blake and Burk of Athens, TX.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Lou Allen and Grover E. Browning of San Angelo, TX, sister-in-law Mary Lyn, and brother Gene Browning of Abilene, TX.

Mary was born in Houston on Nov. 28, 1941 and after a brief stay in the San Antonio area, the family moved to San Angelo where Mary attended the CHS school system and graduated from Central H. S. in May 1960.

Mary had a "can do" type of personality and did just about every craft that came along. She currently made items from craft paper and gave these to nursing homes or anyone she had contact with. She had also created some projects from Quilling, a placement of tiny rolled colored papers into a design, a craft dated back to the 1800's.

Mary was well known in the San Angelo area for her success in dog training. Winning competitions in obedience in places like Dallas, Belton, Waco, and all of West Texas. She also trained dogs while living in Big Spring and amazed people with her understanding of the different breeds. Mary also helped her husband in his coaching career and provided social activities for family and staff. She also worked as a book keeper frequently during their travels across the state.

Mary's personality was lightning in a bottle and one of her sayings was "Rise and shine, this ain't getting it done". Mary will be missed by those that were drawn into conversation by a stranger.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler Texas.