Zelma Verdean Gray

The angels called Zelma "Verdean" Elliott-Fleck-Gray, aged 86, home on November 13, 2024, in Fort Myers, Florida. Born on January 6, 1938, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family and her role as a homemaker.

Verdean is survived by her loving daughter, Beth Fleck of Lehigh Acres, Florida; Stepson Jack (Amy) Gray of Yellville, Arkansas; sisters, Jetta Masters and Jackie Bonifate, both of Three Oaks, MI; granddaughter, Charity (Heath) Dycus of Dyersburg, TN; grandsons, Jason Blake of Lehigh Acres, FL, Eric Fleck of Three Rivers, MI, and Brian Shupp of Granite City, IL; great-granddaughters, Ciara Dycus of Memphis, TN, Codie (Autry) Sartin of Dyersburg, TN, Lelani Jimenez of Albuquerque, NM, and Lillianna Fleck of Three Rivers, MI; and her beloved dog “Baby”. Verdean also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred Elliott and Lillie Mae Jackson, stepmother Etta Elliott, husband Jack Gray, son Rick Fleck, sisters DeVoe Moore, Rennie Waybright, Joannie Koss, and Chris Hardy; grandson Ricky Fleck II, and granddaughter Jamie Shupp. 

A graduate of River Valley High School in Three Oaks, MI, Verdean's life was a testament to the deep bonds and enduring love within her family. She enjoyed painting and playing the piano. Her earthly presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held at Gracelawn Cemetery in Tuckerman, AR, on November 29th, 2024 at 1:00pm. Those wishing to honor Verdean's memory are invited to attend and celebrate her life.