Betty Joyce Gray

Betty Joyce Gray was born September 14, 1939, in Pontotoc, Mississippi. She died Friday, December 1, 2023, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mrs. Gray is survived by her husband of 68 years, J. E. “Bill” Gray; grandson, Heath Michael Gray; one brother, Richard Thomas Ferguson; and one sister, Carolyn Jean Green (Edward). She was predeceased by three sons, Michael Dwayne Gray, Randy Allen Gray, and Ira Joe Gray. Mrs. Gray was a member of the Living Church of God having been baptized in 1957 along with her husband in the Worldwide Church of God on the banks of the Mississippi River by ministers Hal Baird and Bill Winters.

She and Mr. Gray lived in Illinois for many years where they both worked for the firm of George B. Smith Solomon Colors until she retired in 2004. Mrs. Gray enjoyed her work, her family, and being hospitable by entertaining church brethren in their home in Illinois. They moved to Arkansas seven years ago to be near family. Her declining health and arthritis required her to be homebound in recent years.

Interment will be with a graveside service at the Avery Cemetery, in Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas on December 7, 2023, with Pastor Phil West and Elder Davy Crockett officiating.